The National Council of Women Societies, NCWS, Isuikwuato L.G.A Chapter, Abia State over the weekend at the council's headquarters Pavilion, Mbalano in the proverbial manner of ‘charity beginning at home”, honoured its sons and daughters who have distinguished themselves in their respective chosen endeavours as worthy ambassadors and role models.

During the “Maiden Merit Award Ceremony”, the Chairman of the occasion and Education Secretary, Isuikwuato L.G.A, Dr Chinonyerem Uwadinjo in his welcome address said that rewarding service, philanthropy and excellence are vital to the development of any society as such honour could help spur these achievers to do more.

Speaking during the occasion, the Transition Chairman, Isuikwuato L.G.A Barr. Okechukwu Osuoha acknowledged the pivotal role women play in nation building and pledged the support of his council to assist NCWS towards realizing its goals and objectives which partly entail assisting women become self-reliant.

Also in his speech, the President of NCWS, Abia State and Chairman Abia State Local Government Service Commission, Elder Nnenna E. Onwusogh who spoke in Igbo told the rural women at the occasion that NCWS is the umbrella body of all women organizations in Nigeria which is assiduously contributing its quota towards the emancipation of  women in a male dominated society such as ours and urged women to embrace its humanistic objectives, while Mrs. Rose N. Onwuha, President, NCWS, Isuikwuato Chapter, in her welcome address stated that they are honouring “Isuikwuato men and women who have excelled, achieved and impacted towards the development of Isuikwuato”. In her remark one of the awardees, Chief Oby Ndukwe, Publisher of the Beam Newspaper who was honoured as “Woman of Distinction”, thanked NCWS for remembering her good deeds stressing that it is always more joyous to be honoured by one's people.

She maintained that with the present award all her humanitarian and philanthropic gestures to her community and beyond would even be pursued with more vigour, stating that: “my heart gladdens always whenever people are empowered through my efforts”.

Chief Ndukwe later donated 50 wrappers to 50 women of the community and the sum of N100,000.00 to NCWS to help in assisting the widows and the less privileged.

Those equally honoured by the women group include Gen. Ike Nwachukwu, former Senator, and former Minister of External affairs, Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu, former Military Governor of Lagos State, Chief Nkirika Oeyejeocha, member representing Isuikwuato/Ununneochi Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, who donated N200,000.00 to NCWS, Elder Mrs Eunice Uzo Kalu mother of former Governor of Abia State, Dr. Orji Uzo Kalu, Prof. Mrs. Pauline Otti, Dr. Emmanuel Ibegbulam, Prof. Beatrice Onyike, Chief Mrs. Ngozi Osondu, Dame Amarachi Dede, Ugoeze Patience  Ngozie Ogbuneke, Barr. Loveth Ofoegbu, Chief Mrs. Ego Ojukwu, wife of the former Chairman of Isuikwuato L.G.A, Ugoeze Pat Alatta, Hon. Justice Chinwe Oriaku Onyeabo, who donated N50,000 to NCWS and Chief Mrs. Helen Nneoma Nnochiri amongst others.

Highlights of the occasion were troupes of traditional dancers who thrilled the audience at the occasion and unveiling of Isuikwuato Traditional Cake by the Vice-Chancellor Abia State University, Prof. Mkpa Agu Mkpa, assisted by the T.C Chairman of the council, Barr. Osuoha, Dr. Uwadinjo, and some of the awardees.

Dignitaries from all walks of life attended the epoch making occasion and they include, politicians, reverend gentlemen, traditional rulers, journalists amongst others.

Also, at the weekend Publisher of the Beam Newspaper and the current Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Publishers Association (RIVPA) Chief Oby Christie Ndukwe was among eminent personalities who bagged the Gold Merit Award on the occasion of  Isuikwuato Annual Cultural Day/Award Giving Ceremony to eminent sons  and daughters of Isuikwuato and Chieftaincy titles on deserving Nigerians.

In her speech shortly after receiving the award from the Isuikwuato Traditional Rulers Council Chief Oby Ndukwe thanked the people for the honour done her and assured them that the award will spur her to do more and charged every Isuikwuato person to always have the interest of the land at heart if Isuikwuato must move forward.

Describing Isuikwuato as the land of Generals, Chief Ndukwe decried the high level of marginalization meted out to Isuikwuato Local Government Area by the Nigerian Government and the Abia State Government in particular and blamed the backwardness of the Local Government on the leaders whom she said had disappointed the people.

She also used the medium to call on the amiable governor of Abia State Chief Theodore Orji to heed to the plea of Isuikwuato people by  ensuring that an elected Chairman occupies the Mbalano Executive office as according to her Isuikwuato is the only local government that still retains a Transition Chairman describing any reason in that regard by government as not enough for the act pointing out that the people are equal to the task.

She commended Isuikwuato people and the Traditional Rulers Council in particular for recognizing the little contributions made by few of their sons and daughters stressing that time has come for all hands to be on deck to place the area on the fast lane of development.

Earlier in his address, the Chairman of Isuikwuato Traditional Rulers Council HRH, Eze Christopher Emenike Aboh described Isuikwuato as a land rich in culture as their topography, scenery and serenity are reflective of the peoples ways of life.

Eze Aboh who said the occasion was all about handing over the area to God and honouring those who have contributed in the development of humanity and Isuikwuato land in general further described Isuikwuato as a land of hills rolling valley's, streams and rivers, endowed with abundant solid minerals, a land of incorruptible men and women, a land of colourful and contended people stressing that as traditional rulers and custodians of their values they will do everything possible to preserve their culture and bring the people together in order to achieve a common goal, speak with one voice and be able to move Isuikwuato forward.

The traditional ruler who decried the state of affairs in Isuikwuato Local Government Council also appealed to the state governor Chief T.A Orji to as a matter of urgency give the people the opportunity to produce an elected Chairman of the council.

In an interview the Transition Chairman of Isuikwuato Local Government Council Chief Okechukwu Osuoha described the occasion as memorable as it was the first time and during his tenure as chairman and promised to give the people all the needed support.

Osuoha who also bagged an award at the ceremony however thanked the people for the recognition.

In the same vein, the Editor of the Beam Newspaper Mr. Paschal Agbada described the honour done his boss and other sons and daughters of Isuikwuato as laudable since according to him it will go a long way to charging them up and make others wake up from their slumber.

Describing the occasion as a milestone Mr. Agbada however called on Isuikwuato people to be their brothers' keeper and congratulated Chief (Ms) Oby Ndukwe on behalf of the Editorial Board and the Omega Prints.

The occasion which took place last Saturday April 25, 2009 at the Isuikwuato Local Government Council Sports Ground, Mbalano also featured paper presentations by Senator Uche Chukwumerije, Prof. Mkpa Agu Mkpa (VC ABSU), and Dr. Alwell Ibeh.

The ceremony also had dignitaries from all walks of life in attendance including RIVPA Representatives led by Esotericist Monday Wehere.

Others who received the awards include, Navy Capt. Christopher Ibe Osundu, Prof. Ernest Ojukwu, Senator Emma Nwaka among others.

Amaechi Woos Investors

The Rivers State Governor, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Amaechi has urged investors to avail themselves of the economic business potential of the state.

Governor Amaechi made the call yesterday while speaking at a special breakfast session during the first South-South Economic Summit at the Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort, Calabar, Cross River State .

The Governor said Rivers State with over five million people, has an attractive market, and is the highest producer of oil and gas in the country, as well as hosting the largest concentration of multinational firms, ranks as the second longest market in the country.

He explained that on assumption of office, he took pragmatic steps to create a conducive environment for business to flourish in the state and also initiate measures to rehabilitate the repentant cultists and militants that were misled into crime.

The State Chief Executive used that occasion to highlight some of the projects being embarked upon by his administration to improve the standard of living which include the Port Harcourt Ring Road, which has two cable stayed bridges of 100m above sea level, adding, it would be the first in Sub-Saharan Africa..

Others are generation of more power from the State Independent Power Project (IPP), rebuilding of the Niger Hospital , the Mega Hospital of 1,000 beds that would make Rivers State a medical tourist destination in the country.

He also used the occasion to invite the private sector to collaborate with the state government under a Private Public Partnership (PPP) in the housing sector, particularly in the development of the Greater Port Harcourt City, as well as the provision of water.

Governor Amaechi hinted that the state government has concluded a partnership arrangement with a Ukrainian firm in waste management as part of its efforts to restore the beauty of Port Harcourt , while a Ghanaian firm is engaged in planting trees and followers to enhance the Garden City status of the state capital.

The Governor had earlier inspected the state pavilion which was declared the best stand at the exhibition.

Governor Amaechi had since returned to Port Harcourt .

RSG Set To Revamp Its Ailing Firms, Abolishes Discriminatory School Fees

Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State says the outcome of the South-South Economic Summit has challenged his government to revamp ailing state-owned companies.

The Governor, who was speaking last night during the closing ceremony of the first South-South Economic Summit at Calabar, said the State Government would soon embark on massive replanting of more Oil Palm trees, and Rubbers plants to revamp the ailing companies, also announced the abolition of discriminatory schools fees for South-South students studying in its institutions.

He said the time to plan the development of the region is now, especially as relatively more money is coming to the zone, and it should be utilized to develop the people and the area for better future.

Governor Amaechi said the present governments of the South-South had studied what their predecessors in office did, and has taken off from there, pointing out that the security challenges confronting the area has been reduced.

He explained that the governors of the Niger Delta were in agreement to talk to their people engaged in genuine struggle for the area, but would ensure the enforcement of law on criminals who are bringing shame and embarrassment to our people.

The State Chief Executive used the occasion to appeal to the leaders of the zone not to abandon the governors, but to offer useful suggestions and advice that would move the area forward.

Earlier, in a communiqué issued at the end of the Summit , and read by Prof. Pat. Utomi, the six governors of the region have resolved to cooperate and work together towards the creation of an integrated economy that would push up viable ventures with public private partnership financing option.

The Summit also agreed to create genuine strategy to nationalize and increase efficiency as a region, as well as establish coordinating bodies that would have the responsibility for the implementation of the mandate of the regional integration.

The communiqué called for governmental action for enhanced Nigerian content and business growth of the region, based on the increased linkage of local entrepreneur from the region to the oil and gas sector.

Similarly, the Summit resolved to build in the short term, regional and common infrastructures in the areas of tourism cluster, road network, security, education and power, while in the medium term, railway infrastructure, oil and gas areas would be focused.

The Summit which had its goal, integration of the economics of the region and promotion of global competitiveness, intended to create a thriving centre of national growth and prosperity and had the theme: “Positioning the South-South Nigeria for global competitiveness”, and was attended by the six governors of the region, economic experts and all cadres of personnel from the region.

Amaechi Re-Assigns Empowerment Commissioner

Another minor cabinet reshufflement has been effected in the Rivers State Executive Council, with the re-assignment of the State Commissioner of Employment, Mr Emmanuel Chindah, from the Ministry of Empowerment, to the Ministry of Agriculture, as the Commissioner in-charge of that Ministry.

A Statement by the Secretary to State Government, Hon Magnus Abe which announced this in Port Harcourt yesterday  said the re-assignment of the Commissioner was approved by Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi.

The statement added that the Governor also approved the appointment of new Chairmen of Governing Councils for two State-owned Tertiary institutions, whose former Chairmen are now holding federal appointments.

Prof. Augustus Ahiazu, a former Vice Chancellor of the State University of Science and Technology, has now been appointed as the new Chairman of Governing Council of the Rivers State Polytechnic, Bori, to replace Sir Gabriel Toby, who has been named as Pro-Chancellor, University of Port Harcourt.

The Statement also added that, a one-time Deputy Governor of Rivers State , Sir Dominic Anucha, is now the Chairman of Governing Council of the College of Education , Rumuolumeni, Port Harcourt , to replace Ambassador Ignatius Ajuru, who had since moved to University of Jos , as the Pro-Chancellor of that institution.

The statement said all appointments take immediate effect.

Gov. Amaechi Visits No. 6 Field …..Orders Immediate Completion Of Project

The Rivers State Governor, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi has directed the contractor handling the construction of a mini stadium project at the number Six Field in Port Harcourt Township to complete the work before the end of next month.

Governor Amaechi who gave the directive yesterday while inspecting some ongoing projects in the state capital said government wants the project to be ready before the end of May so that youths could use the facility for recreational activities.

The governor also directed the contractor to open-up the drains around the areas and properly channel the water to near-by creek.

Inspecting Jubilee Park , Governor Amaechi ordered that all the dilapidated structures within the park be demolished while its illegal occupants should vacate immediately.

He also directed motor mechanics operating around the park to quit the area as government intends to reconstruct the park to serve the desired purpose.

While on the inspection, governor ordered all those trading along Niger and other streets near the Creek Road Market to relocate immediately to the market.

At the Creek Road Market the State Chief Executive ordered the rehabilitation of an aged woman who resides and sells various types of leaves on the busy Creek Road , emphasizing that government can no longer tolerate the occupation of the road by traders.

The governor, who also visited the Nembe/Bonny and Bille Water Jetty, ordered for the clearing of the area for modern structures to be built for the comfort of the people living or doing businesses there.

Other projects inspected by the Governor include the New Layout Port Harcourt Township Market, the Niger Hospital at Emenike Street , Diobu and the Dental and Maxillofacial Hospital at Garrison on the Port Harcourt-Aba Expressway.

Minimize Politics, Maximize Economies: South-South Governors Told

The Deputy Senate Leader, Sen.  Victor Ndoma Egba (SAN) has called on the Governors of the South-South Geo-Political Zone to minimize politics that would generate friction, but should rather maximize economic activities that would attract development to the region.

Sen.  Victor Ndoma Egba (SAN)  said this Thursday in a goodwill message delivered at the first South-South Economic Summit, held at Tinapa Business Resort, Calabar, Cross River State, noted that political considerations has affected the economic potentials of the region in the past.

He explained that it was the first time such economic integration move was being made and pledged the support and cooperation of Senators from the zone towards the realization of the vision of the governors, to engender a new atmosphere for regional growth and development.

The Deputy Senate Leader said the dream if allowed to blossom, would produce a rejuvenated South-South region where peace would be enthroned, adding that the mission would be actualized when the governors, the lawmakers, and the federal government as well cooperate and collaborate.

Also speaking, the Leader of the House of Representatives, Hon Tunde Akogun, reiterated the need for economic integration since the language of economics is more fortified than politics in projecting the region, and assured of the support of lawmakers at the National Assembly towards the realization of the initiative.

On his part, the former Chairman, PDP Board of Trustees (BOT), Chief Tony Anenih advised the governors of the zone to unite and work together, and regretted the absence of former State Governors of the region who should be collaborating with the incumbents to drive development in their areas.

Chief Anenih lamented the dangers posed by militancy in the Niger Delta, and condemned the criminal acts perpetrated by some youths and urged the State Governments to cooperate and collectively fight to stamp out the menace.

He lauded the efforts of the Vice President, Dr Goodluck Jonathan towards developing the region and urged the people of the South-South to rally round him as their son to succeed.

Chief Anenih commended the Cross River State Government for the vision in establishing Tinapa Business Resort but called on the Federal Government to aid the full utilization of the establishing to enable it function effectively since the state government lacks the capacity to achieve the objective.

Earlier, the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Liyel Imoke said the forum of South-South Governors identified key areas for particular consideration including trans-regional railway project, coastal road network linking various states within the area, developing agriculture where the zone has comparative advantage amongst others.

Senator Imoke said the South-South Governors collectively agreed to realize the vision by setting up a committee headed by Prof. Pat. Utomi, and made up of technocrats and major economic players from the zone to actualize the aspiration.

The Governor of States within the region had earlier in a breakfast session highlighted the economic potentials of the states and called on investors to avail themselves of the opportunity.

Odili's Kinsmen Unite For Amaechi  … Say, ‘he is Our Son’ … Warn Detractors Against Reconciliation

Stories by Paschal Agbada and Wilson Uchendu

Against the backdrop of the wind of reconciliation blowing across the political divide of former governor of Rivers State, Dr. Peter Odili and his erstwhile godson the executive Governor of Rivers State, Rt. Hon. Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi and the unnecessary chicanery being perpetrated by political jobbers  who want to feed from the seeming feud between the duo, the Ndonis, the ethnic nationality where Odili hails from have unreservedly lashed out at a publication credited to one Lambert Ugoagwu in the back page of Weekly Star Newspaper of 21st to 27th April 2009 with the caption “You Are An Ingrate, Ndonis tell Amaechi” which has seriously angered the Ndonis resulting in their disassociating themselves from both the Lambert Ugoagwu and his spurious claims as  being a representative of the Ndonis  and as was presented in the Weekly Star publication.

In a press statement signed by the leaders of thought in Ndoni Community led by Elder Rapheal Odili as President General, Chief Okwuchukwu Emeordi, 2nd Vice President, Chief Stanley Opia Obi, National P.R.O, Chief Valentine Paul Obi, Secretary General, Chief Obi Obi Ikwumadi, National Treasurer and Mr. Lemmy Edemanya, Financial Secretary, the Ndoni Community elders stated that the revered name of Ndoni should not be used in anyway,  “to fan the embers of war and propaganda”.

They equally noted that apart from the throne of kingship in the land, the only body recognized as having the community's mandate to do or say anything on its behalf is the Executive body of Ndoni Community, which had just held an Annual Convention on the 11th of April 2009 in Ndoni town. And who is who in Ndoni was present.

Neither was Lambert Ugoagwu present according to the statement, nor issues concerning Rt. Hon. Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi and Dr. Peter Odili mentioned.

Rather, it was strictly a convention for a cross-fertilization of ideas aimed at promoting peace, unity and to stimulate progress and development in the community.

They thus felt that both the Lambert Ugoagwu which they felt must have been fictitious and his warped ideologies were neither represented nor seen. How come then he came representing Ndoni Community?

The statement therefore claims that it must have been a farce concocted to create enmity between the Ndoni people and the Amaechi administration. They further stressed that the Ndoni people have no problems whatsoever with Governor Rotimi Amaechi. “He is our son. He knows what to do for Ndoni Community at whatever time and how to do them”.

“As a community, we do not see the relationship between Dr. Peter Odili, former Executive Governor of Rivers State, himself an Ndoni son, and the incumbent Governor of Rivers State, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi as anything very unusual. Dr. Peter Odili is Chibuike Amaechi's former boss and undoubtedly his mentor, therefore their relationship should not be for public discourse”.

Beam Checks gathered via a  non-partisan source that actually the Ndoni side of the story appear factual and candidly, a convention was held and none of the issues discussed had any bearing on Dr. Peter Odili or his political son, Rotimi Amaechi.

Therefore, who is Lambert Ugoagwu, what political interest or group could he be representing? If he truly exists, what is he up to or is it just a charade?

It is maybe a charade to heighten tension and further polarize the two from their former filial relationship and bond.

Yet , Lambert Ugoagwu may not be blamed as he saw the gulf created by the seeming estrangement in the erstwhile bond and thus decided to capitalize on it. And who can be said to be widening the gulf now and to have created the opportunity for the likes of Ugoagwu to capitalize upon? Odili or Amaechi?

According to the respected elder statesman Chief Ada George, several text messages have been sent to Dr. Peter Odili by him in connection with the reconciliation bid but Odili rebuffed the entreaties.

Funny enough, several people very close to Odili in his tenure had seen the emerging trend in Rivers politics and chose not to be blinded by sentiments and momentary personal aggrandizements so, had remained  to negotiate with reality.

Recall that Chief Ofili Enebeli, Dr. Odili's cousin had played a major role during the battle for the governorship ticket of the PDP.

He was on hand at the dying minutes to ensure the endorsement of Amaechi as the flag bearer by Odili 24 hours to the primary election. Beam Checks also gathered that he had remained consistent in his support for Amaechi even during the ten-month legal battle. Ofili as has been stated earlier is one of those that chose to remain on the side of truth even when he was offered several juicy appointments under Omehia's ill-fated government.

A lot of puzzles therefore abound with the entry of Lambert Ugoagwu right now. And with that, there are numerous rhetorical questions being posed by watchers of the unfolding drama both in Ndoni and in Rivers State generally regarding the reconciliation saga. Nonetheless, time which often presents itself as a decider and a healer of all wounds will definitely tell.

How Amaechi Saved PDP  … Enthrones New Democratic Culture

Chairman of the Electoral Panel of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP and the Executive Governor of Rivers State, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi has been commended for entrenching a new democratic order at the recently concluded PDP 10th National Convention held in Abuja.

Speaking to newsmen in Abuja yesterday over the issue, the Rivers State Liaison Officer, Mr. John Enebeli stated that the Executive Governor as a democrat in his capacity as the party's Electoral Panel Chairman literarily reversed the despotic and retrogressive culture of intimidation and highhandedness imposed on the party by former President Olusegun Obasanjo and the former National Chairman of the party Chief Ahmadu Ali. Formerly at the party's national convention it will be noted that the whims and caprices of Obasanjo and his co-horts were unduely forced down the throat of party members. For instance at the party's Seventh National Convention held in November, 2006, the constitution of the party as regards qualification for the Chairmanship of Board of Trustees was illegally conducted to suit the wishes of former President Obasanjo.

Also the eight National Covention saw the emergence of Umaru Musa Yar'Adua as the party's presidential candidate through a very strange consensus as the then President intimidated the daylight out of known presidential aspirants like Dr. Peter Odili, Obong Victor Attah, Prof. Jerry Gana, Gen. Muhammed Gusau, etc to withdraw from the contest against their collective wishes for Yar'Adua.

In the same vein, the ninth convention of the party where Prince Vincent Ogbulafor become the National Chairman was done in a less than democratic principles and ideals as the governors of the party forced Ogbulafor on other members of the party.

The 10th National Convention conducted by Governor Amaechi was adjudged the most transparent as voting arrangement was concluded within 35 minutes.

Also, this was the very first time where delegates for the convention appeared in an orderly manner and conducted themselves diligently throughout the period of the convention, which cannot be compared to the norm in the past where time and energy were dissipated on voting which normally turns out to be heavily marred by irregularities.

The FCT Liaison Officer said: “the governor proved his mantle, we are happy and proud of the achievements he has recorded at the party level, it is indeed an additional feather to his cap.”

Beam Checks gathered that Gov. Amaechi personally ensured that the N100 million approved by the presidency for the convention was properly utilized.

Other personalities that complemented the astute leadership of Gov. Amaechi include, Gov. Gabriel Suswan of Benue State, Prof. Julius Ihonvbare, a former Presidential Adviser, and Ahamdi Nweke, a former governorship aspirant in Abia State.

At the Party's 10th National Convention, the powers of the BOT Chairman which were maneuvered by Obasanjo were removed.

Formerly the BOT Chairman takes all the important decisions and supervisions of the party and can call any national officer or minister to order. This implies that the undemocratic manipulations of the past in PDP has been replaced with a transparent culture of orderliness and fairness.

Fortunately, this process was allowed by providence through the able supervision of the Rivers State Governor.

Stories By Paschal Agbada and Wilson Uchendu

There is palpable fear over the weekend concerning the equitable sharing of neigbourhood contracts in the Multi-billion dollar Escravos Gas to Liquid (EGTL) contract of the oil giant, Chevron Nigeria Limited, Beam Checks gathered.

In a letter of protest signed by the Public Relations Officer, Secretary and President of the Gbaramatu Kingdom Host Communities Contractors Forum (GHCCF), Clement Tonwfawei, Sheriff Mulade and Akpos Ofurubo respectively, alongside three others, the Ijaw Community lamented that the oil company had reneged on the Memorandum of Understanding, MOU reached with it a few years ago before the commencement of the project.

In the statement, certain unnamed high officials of Chevron were accused of unscrupulously conniving with their Ilayi and Itsekiri neighbours to outsmart them by depriving their community (Gbaramatu Kingdom) of the necessary contracts due them in view of former agreements entered with them.

This protest which was addressed to the project Director of EGTL, Mr. Michael Craily equally states: “All major contracts were given to our neighbouring Itsekiri and Ilaje with a strong conspiracy with top members of your management staff to the detriment of our host communities”.

The statement further went on: “The system in the EGTL has become (that of) a clique and godfatherism.

We, therefore, challenge the management of Chevron/Texaco to publish all contracts awarded to the Ijaw from Gbaramatu and Egbema Kingdom in the EGTL project”.    

The statement equally adduced that the relative peace being experienced in Delta State today was initiated by the state government, political leaders, opinion leaders and traditional rulers from different communities in the state and therefore urged such relevant stakeholders in the maintenance of peace in the state to prevail on Chevron to treat the matter with the needed urgency before it gets out of hand as this “is necessary to avoid a breach of existing peace in the state”, the statement concluded.

NULGE Boss, Business Mogul Kidnapped ANAMBRA

Chief Godwin Ibekwe, President of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Anambra Chapter and a well-known business man, industrialist and Chief Executive of Tonimas Oil Ltd and New Castle Hotels in Neni, Chief Anothy Enukeme were yesterday abducted by groups of different gun men.

Chief Enukeme who is equally the Chairman of Anambra State Traditional Prime Ministers Council was said to have been abducted from his home town in Neni, Anambra State.

When Beam checks contacted the State Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Fidelis Ibekwe, he denied knowledge of such incidence saying” “I am not really aware of such thing”.

The kidnappers did not leave any clue as to where to deposit their anticipated ransom but a source who spoke to Beam checks said that “such development is likely to be in offing as soon as possible as that seems to be the reason why he was abducted”.

Also abductors of Ibekwe, a former Chairman of the Nigerian Labour Congress in the state did not leave anything for friends and relatives to know on what step to do next. Over the period, there had been series of abductions in the state and they include that of Chief Emeka Okafor, President-General of Awka Development Union, an undisclosed young man that just returned to Nigeria from South Africa for Easter Celebration.

However, the seemingly increase in the wave of crime in the state has necessitated the call by some civil society groups in the state to demand the immediate redeployment of the state commissioner of Police, Mr. Abbas Mohammed. The groups, International Society for Civil Liberties and the Rule of Law, and the Civil Liberties organization, CLO under t he leadership of Emeka Umeaghalasi and Aloysius Attah said that Abbas has done little or nothing to reduce the crime rate in the state which has reached an all time high.

They called on the Inspector-General of Police, Mike Okiro to intervene and elevate Abba's second in command, Musa Bello, Deputy Commissioner of Police to the Post of Commissioner of Police in the state because of his combined performance with former Commissioner John Haruna which helped to drastically reduced crime in the state three years ago.   

Bauchi Crisis: My Opponents Behind It ~Gov. Yuguda BAUCHI

Governor Isah Yuguda of Bauchi State has attributed the recent crisis that enveloped the state to the nefarious activities of his political opponents who according to the Governor are hell-bent in rendering the state ungovernable in other to distract his administration.

Governor Yuguda made this known in Abuja at the weekend during the presentation of the biography a former Governor of old Imo State, late Chief Sam Onunaka Mbakwe.

The Governor told newsmen shortly after the event that such opponents are enemies of the state but warned that Government would ruthlessly deal with anybody either Muslim or Christian who go about burning churches or mosques in the name of religion.

Commenting on the nation's dilapidated infrastructure, the Governor lamented that the railway which used to unify every segment of the nation is almost in pariah state.

Governor Yuguda said: “We must weep for this country, we still cannot produce more than 8000 megawatts of electricity. Our railway has gone”.

He therefore maintained that the situation indeed calls for weeping as Mbakwe did long time ago. Stressing that Mbakwe “was weeping because he wants every Nigerians to enjoy living on earth”.

The Governor called on Moslems and Christians to exhibit brotherly love but hinted that the criminal elements amongst these two religions can do everything to destabilize the polity in the name of religion.

“Therefore we must identify these criminal” the Governor said.

20,000 Youths To Be Engaged In Farming YOBE

The Commissioner for Youth Development in Yobe State, Yusuf Yahaya stated in an interview over the weekend with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that about 20,000 youths will be engaged in government organized farm empowerment programme.

“Arrangements are being made to expand the existing farms to accommodate more participants”, the Commissioner said.

Stating further, Yusuf Yahaya said “at least 1,000 youths will be engaged in each of the 17 Local Governments Areas of the state.

“Government will also provide farm inputs to individual farmers to support and encourage them for economic prosperity.

Tractors, fertilizer, improved seeds and herbicides would be provided to support our farmers”.

Part of the interview also carried the Commissioner's strong message to the youths as he urged them to take advantage of the opportunities provided by government and try to be self reliant.

“These opportunities are democratic dividends emerging from the Ibrahim Geidams (Governor) administration which must be effectively utilized for economic enhancement of the individual beneficiaries and the state, “the commissioner said.

Quoting him “The administration will liaise with the Ministry of Animals and Fisheries to engage youths in livestock production and fish farming we are working on introducing youths to livestock farming and trading.”

Finally, Yahaya hinted that a plan sensitization drive is already in the offing to drive home the message and mobilize youths for the programme.

 Kidnap Of Ex-Commissioner BAYELSA

Militants struck last Sunday in Sagbanma Local Government Area of Bayelsa State at the country home of a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and a former Commissioner for Special Duties in Bayelsa State, Hon. Fyneman Wilson located at Mile 4 Sagbama. They demanded a N100 million for his freedom.

Information reaching Beam checks revealed that the gunmen first of all sent residents scampering for safety in the evening when they arrived by shooting sporadically into the air.

The abductors who had arrived in four speed boats from the creeks on succeeding in their abduction had notified on lookers of their demand for a N100 million ransom which before they left they reduced to N50 million.

From Beam Checks it was gathered that the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the State Iniobong Ibokette, stated that the Police was aware of the incident and that it took place around 9.pm Sunday evening noting that the police was not aware that any ransom was demanded.

However, while full scale investigation had started according to the PPRO, it will be important to note that Chief Wilson at one time was the Bayelsa coordinator for Green Movement, the campaign organization that midwifed the political programmes of Vice President Jonathan during his term as Governor of the state. Again, he was the state co-ordinator for Yar'Adua/Goodluck Jonathan campaign at the 2007 polls.

230kg Fish Wins Fishing Festival Competition TARABA

In a fishing festival in Taraba State, a 230kg fish has won the star prize for the fishing competition as the man who caught the fish took home his prize.

The festival, Nwonyo Fishing and Cultural Festival took place in Jalingo the capital city of Tarabal State last Saturday.

According to Beam Checks, the fish which won for the owner the star prize of a Peugot 206 Car from the state government was only able to be lifted by ten men.

Incidentally a popular Nigerian folklore and country music singer Bongos Ikwue was on hand to purchase the star prize at the whopping price of N5million.

According to records, the competition had started in 1914. However, along the line it became history only for former Governor of the State Governor Jolly Nyame to restore it in 2006.

Another big catch that earned the second place was caught by Danjuma Nyatida and it weighed 160 kilogrammes as the third heaviest weighing 150 kilogram was caught by Saleh Haruna.

Dignitaries at the occasion included Senate President David Mark, Governor Aliyu Akwe Doma of Nasarawa State and the Deputy Governor of Benue and Niger States respectively. 

Ekiti Rerun: Election Inconclusive, As IGP Moves Over For Security

By Paschal Agbada

It is becoming clear that the result of last Saturday's rerun election in Ekiti State may suffer or may have suffered a still birth.

The reason for this assertion is that following Beam checks monitoring of the elections yesterday, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared the exercise inconclusive.

The position of the commission on the controversial issue was relayed in a statement by its Public Affairs Development which disappointedly came on the heels of the Inspector General of Police's (IGP) movement to Ado Ekiti-the capital of the state to remain at the helms of security affairs until the end of the election There are still two wards where elections are still to hold.

According to statements credited to INEC, it said the results of the remaining four local governments may not be aired pending when the rescheduled election in Oye Ekiti and two other important areas where it was difficult to conduct elections last Saturday as a result of violence.

The statement in part read: “Once more, the sad reality of poor environment for democratic election in Nigeria has come to the fore.

The supplementary governorship election in Ekiti State which held on Saturday April 25, 2009 showed both the possibilities and the problems of conducting elections in Nigeria.

“Ekiti election was billed to hold in 10 Local Government Areas and 63 Registration Areas.

“”INEC was fully prepared for the election personnel and materials were duly and smoothly deployed in all the areas participating in the election.

“The Commission has concluded the election in nine of the Local Government Areas and 61 of the 63 Registration Area involved.

“sadly, the governorship election in Ekiti State has continued to be prolonged due to the undemocratic and uncivilized tendencies in some political groups.       

“As a result of the violence and threat to lives and peace in some parts of Ekiti State, INEC was compelled yesterday to postpone the election in the remaining local government area of Oye and two Registration Areas.

“Barring further breach of peace and a return of an environment conducive for the conduct of the polls, elections in the areas affected by the postponement will hold on Monday (Yesterday) 27th April, 2009.

“As a result of the large population of votes in the affected local government area and the two registration areas, the governorship election in Ekiti State remains inconclusive.

“It is regrettable in spite of everything, especially the finger pointing and strenuous efforts to shift blames away from those who masterminded the difficulties that underscored the 2007 elections, Nigerian politicians have bluntly refused to imbibe the culture of democracy with its attendant spirit of accepting to play the game according to the rules.

For reasons that are best known to those involved, an office of the INEC was burnt down in Ekiti and the conduct of the supplementary election became more than an ordinary civic duty for the personnel of the commission.

“INEC appeals to the people of Ekiti to remain calm. The people of Oye Local Government Area in particular should come out and exercise their civic duty.

“We also plead with people who are not from Ekiti State and who have no business in the area to allow the people to freely exercise their leaders”, the statement concluded.

As at the time of going to the press yesterday, Beam checks revealed that the Action Congress AC, had rejected the results declared from five local government stating that they were fabricated in favour of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The statement from the AC camp emphatically claimed that the AC represented by Dr. Kayode Fayemi won the elections in the areas where Mr. Segun Oni of the PDP was declared winner by the INEC.

Meanwhile, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mike Okiro had virtually moved all top security personnel of the force to Ekiti.

According to Beam checks, the IGP on arrival conferred with the acting governor and was almost settling at the ambience of the state house in Ado Ekiti when on a second thought he changed his mind and decided to stay within the town so as to avoid and forestall any breakdown of law and order.

The presence of the large detachment of security details in the state notwithstanding, some irate youths were spotted yesterday gathering at the state collation centre.

There intention was not immediately made known until later when Beam Checks gathered that they were threatening to burn down the place if the results of the election did not reflect the pattern of votes cast.

A lot of people, notably AC members in their hundreds milled down to the Fajuyi Area of Ado Ekiti, which is close to the collation center-Christ's Girls Ado Ekiti registering their disagreement and resentment over what they alleged was a plot to force Segun Oni on them.

As palpable fear longs in the air around Ado Ekiti at the moment, bonfires were noticeable at most round abouts, junctions in the capital by protesters mostly AC loyalists who are not mincing words as to their readiness to make the state a-no-go-area through violence if INEC dares declare the PDP candidate the winner in state.

The AC Chairman of the state, Chief Jide Awe while addressing journalists yesterday at the Party secretariat noted that there were indications that the ruling PDP was clandestinely pressurizing INEC through the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) to announce Oni as the winner. He stressed that such an act would strictly spell doom for the peaceful co-existing amongst the people of the state.

However, in a contrary view, the PDP Public Relations Officer PRO, Mr. Lekan Adekambi reasoned that the cancellation of the rerun election in Iro-Ekiti in Gbonyin Local Government Area of the state may discourage indigenes of the area from participating in future elections.

He equally summoned INEC to thoroughly investigate the brutalization of some notable PDP members in Igbemo Ekiti on that very day of the election by thugs from the AC camp. He concluded by saying that in the mayhem, a former Chief executive of the state was the leader of the group that succeeded in chasing PDP members out of town.

Vacancy In NDDC  … No Road For Opara

By Okechukwu Geoffrey

It is indeed gratifying to note that plans are under way by the people of Niger Delta to replace the immediate past Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission Mr. Timi Alaibe with a more reliable and trust worthy candidate who will continue from where Alaibe stropped.

However, while some persons are carrying false rumours that the former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representative Sir Austin Opara has been chosen for the plum job others have also passed a vote of no confidence on him.

Some Rivers people who barred their minds on the development under the conditions of anonymity advised the state governor to be conscious of who to choose as Alaibe's successor now that it is the turn of the state to produce the number one man of the commission.

They maintained that the state has men and women of proven integrity but described the former Deputy Speaker as not ideal for the vacant position.

The people reminded governor Amaechi of the dastardly roles Opara played during the 2007 governorship election in the state and wondered why anyone in his right senses will recommend Opara for such a revered position.

Should the governor listen to Dr. Peter Odili in this regard the people said it would a