News:

Chief Desmond Wosu has joined other well meaning citizens of the state to commend the governor of Rivers State, Rt. Hon Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi for making the State owned University of Science and Technology Nkpolu, Port Harcourt the envy of others.

He described the coming of Amaechi as governor of the state as a good omen to the University community pointing out that the governor has brought a lot of developments to the school such as provision of equipments, construction and resurfacing of roads in the campus as well as empowering the university financially.

He particularly thanked the governor for the choice of Prof. Barineme Fakae as the Vice Chancellor of the school as according to him Fakae has brought succour to the school as his achievements cannot be overemphasized and described him as a dogged visionary and detribalized leader who knows his onions.

Wosu who also is the school’s Public Relations Officer told members of the Ikwerre Media Practitioners of Nigeria who visited him that the coming of Amaechi and Fakae was like the coming of Jesus Christ which according to him has given the university a human face.

Chief Wosu used the medium to call on Ikwerre journalists to help sensitize Ikwerre youths on the need to go to school as learning a handiwork is also necessary for those who do not want to go to school.

Describing education as the shortest way to success, he said time had gone when a lazy man would expect manna to fall from heaven.

“If you are educated with sound certificate, employment will look for you and not you looking for employment” Wosu opined.

He however appealed to Ikwerre youths to shun cultism and emulate reasonable lifestyles in order to emerge great men and women tomorrow in our society.

He said he was happy that in all areas of human endeavour the Ikwerres could measure adequately and thanked God for elevating the Ikwerres.

Chief Desmond Wosu has also promised to give his support to Ikwerre journalists at any point in time.

In a related development, Prince Goddy Worly has expressed happiness for finding himself in the midst of journalists from the Ikwerre extraction.

He stated this when the association paid him a courtesy visit in Port Harcourt. The business mogul has promised to support IMPAN whenever the need arises and charged them to remain united.

Page 3 RSG News

RSG Earmarks N8bn For Provision Of Water In Port Harcourt

The Rivers State Government says it has earmarked the sum of N8billion in the 2009 budget for the provision of potable water to Port Harcourt and environs.

Commissioner for Information Mr. Ogbonna Nwuke who disclosed this in an interview with newsmen in Port Harcourt , said the water project cannot be carried out without the demolition of illegal structures which have been built on government's right of way.

Mr. Nwuke said the water pipes and drainages cannot be laid on major roads, but on the side walk ways, and advised all those affected by the demolition exercise to bear the pain in good faith and regard it as necessary sacrifice that must be made to provide the people the basic necessities of life.

He noted that those in the high density areas like Port Harcourt Township and Diobu areas have already made the sacrifice, and urged owners of properties at the GRA axis that has been marked for removal, to appreciate government's effort to return the city to its Garden city status, and remove the structures.

The Commissioner debunked insinuations that the present administration is not sensitive to the plight of the people, stressing that enough time and notices were given to the affected property owners to adjust their fences to allow room for infrastructural development, and thanked those that complied for their  cooperation.

Mr Nwuke restated that the urban renewal programme necessitated the demolition of illegal structures, noting that the exercise is not targeted at any person, but is geared towards making Port Harcourt a modern city.

The Commissioner disclosed that the demolition exercise also affected those serving under the present government, including his own personal family house located at Opobo Crescent , and wondered if his father's property and that of other serving Commissioners demolished were part of the alleged political opponents' property.

He agreed that there may have been disagreements in opinion between politicians, but not on the progress of the state, as the people are united on issues that would move the state forward.

On landscaping, the State Information Commissioner acknowledged that the process of demolition is quicker than the pace of beautification, but pointed out that the process of development takes longer time, assuring that the landscaping project has commenced along Station Road in the old Port Harcourt township area, to provide the needed aesthetic beauty of the city.

The Commissioner also used the occasion to dispel rumours about the ban of pure water and wearing of trousers by women, noting that the Governor Amaechi led government has not contemplated any such ban, and urged the public to ignore such rumours that has no iota of truth in them.

Gov. Amaechi Eulogises Late Journalist

Rivers State Governor, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi has urged journalists in the state to emulate the lifestyle and professional conduct of late Mr. John Ogbedu, who was the South-South Bureau Chief of the Tribune Newspapers..

The Governor, who was represented at the tribute session, put together by friends of the deceased journalist, by the State Commissioner for Information, Hon. Ogbonna Nwuke, enjoined journalists to protect the ethics of the profession for which Mr. Ogbedu died.

“We are the soul of this great country…we must begin to set an agenda for the nation, we must set an agenda for ourselves and the family of late John Ogbedu”.

Governor Amaechi said journalists must begin to live by example, in peace and unity at all times, and described the death of Mr. Ogbedu as a passage unto a higher plane. He  condoled the family to bear the loss with courage.

Also speaking, Chairman of the Federated Correspondents Chapel of the NUJ, Mr Hayford Lawson, described Mr. Ogbedu as a constitutional and meticulous' man who never left things to chance, adding that the late Journalist was held in high esteem by his colleagues, for his gentle and upright lifestyle.

The new Chairman of the Nigerian Rivers State Council of the Union of Journalist-NUJ, Mr Opaka Dokubo, regretted the untimely death of Mr. Ogbedu, adding that the late Journalist died at a time his invaluable contributions to the profession was needed most.

The NUJ Chairman urged journalists in the state to join hands with the State Council to work in unity so as to enhance the welfare of members, and advance the cause of the profession.

Tributes were also rendered by some of his professional colleagues practicing in the state.

Present at the tribute session include spokesman of the Joint Military Task Force in the state, Lt. Colonel Sagir Musa, representatives of the State Police Command, the NDDC, Indorama Petrochemical Complex and Shell.

Mr. John Ogbedu was until his death, the South/South Bureau Chief of the African Newspapers of Nigeria PLC, publishers of the Tribune Titles.

He was also the Vice Chairman of the Federated Correspondents Chapel of the NUJ, and a former State Chairman of the NLC in Cross River state.

He died on Saturday the 17th of January 2009 after a brief illness at the age of 45.

Mr. Ogbedu would be buried in his Country home, Ogoja, Cross Rivers State on Saturday.

RSG Orders Monitoring Of Petrol Product Marketing

Following the reduction in pump price of petroleum products, and the attendant sharp practices engaged by marketers, the Rivers State Executive Council has directed the Commissioner for Energy to utilize necessary steps within the law to ensure compliance.

The directive also urged the Ministry of Energy to resurrect its Task Forces, including mobilizing security agencies to monitor the operations of filling stations with a view to checking hoarding of petroleum products, under delivery, and selling above approved pump price in the state.

The Commissioner for Information, Mr. Ogbonna Nwuke, who disclosed this last night while briefing Government House Correspondents on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting in Port Harcourt, said the Executive Council reviewed actions of petroleum marketers before taking the position to protect residents from hardship caused by their attitude.

Exco, Mr Nwuke said, considered Government's efforts on automated salary payments and agreed that the new system posed challenges in some areas that need to be corrected, particularly the mix ups that resulted in salary delay of some workers.

He hinted that Exco has directed top officials of the state to interface with the bank officials to ensure that all the bottle necks identified were corrected to enable its workers benefit maximally from the automated salary payment.

The Information Commissioner also explained that Council has approved the building of a 250-Bed Mother and Child Hospital while the 18 storey Adolphus Karibi-Whyte Specialist Hospital construction would commence within the year.

He stated that although the site for the hospital is being tested to accommodate the gigantic structure, the design is ready, and soon the plan would be translated into reality as funds has equally been set aside for the project.

On the new Greater Port Harcourt City, Mr Nwuke said the state government is going ahead with the project adding “we are happy that the remarkable progress has been made” especially with the constitution of a management team headed by Mrs Aleruchi Cookeygam.

The Commissioner hinted that in a few weeks time the consultants of the new city that carried out its design would be presenting to all stakeholders how the city would look like.

The Information boss also disclosed that the security situation in the state has greatly improved and lauded the security agencies and the people of the state for their understanding and cooperation.

Mr Nwuke particularly thanked Rivers people for bearing the pains of some positive policies of the state government that is aimed at restoring the beauty of Port Harcourt .

Mrs Amaechi Congratulates NUJ Exco … Mourns Late Journalist

Wife of the Governor of Rivers State Lady Judith Amaechi has congratulated Mr Opaka Dokubo on his election as the new Chairman of the Rivers State Council of the Nigerian Union of Journalists.

In a congratulatory letter to Opaka Dokubo, Lady Amaechi also congratulated other members of the State Council for a successful inauguration.

According to the letter, signed by the Media Assistant, Dike Bekwele, Mrs Amaechi expressed confidence in the ability of the new Exco to pilot the NUJ Rivers State Council to a greater height.

“Your election and subsequent inauguration no doubt is an eloquent testimony and attestation to your popularity and overwhelming confidence in your ability to move your noble profession to an enviable height in Rivers State and Nigeria at large”.

The Rivers Governor's wife also commiserated with the NUJ and the management of Tribune Newspaper over the death of its Port Harcourt Bureau Chief, Mr John Ogbedu. “I want to commiserate with the NUJ, the management and staff of Tribune newspapers as well as the family of the late John Ogbedu over his sudden demise. It is sad that Mr Ogbedu's death occurred when his service like many others is required to consolidate and sustain our nascent democracy as well as re-brand a new Rivers State ”.

She called on journalists in the state to improve on journalism practice in honour of their departed colleague.

To further strengthen the peace and security in Rivers State, The State Government says it will partner with the Inter-Agency Maritime Security Task Force instituted by the Yar'Adua administration to check acts of illegalities in Nigerian waters.

The State Governor, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi disclosed this today when members of the task force consisting of the Army, Navy, Airforce, State Security Service and officials of Maritime Agency led by its Chairman, Rear Admiral Dele Ezeoba paid him a courtesy visit at Government House, Port Harcourt.

Represented by his Deputy, Engr. Tele Ikuru, Governor Amaechi said his government was prepared to work with and support the task force to ensure its success. “We as a government will work with you, support you and provide you all it takes to make you succeed because your success is our success”.

Applauding the setting up of the agency by President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua, the state chief executive said government has almost overwhelmed the criminal activities being perpetrated in the name of militancy in the state.

“What is going on in Port Harcourt is mere criminality because they are backed by the objective to make money and we are already overwhelming them”, Governor Amaechi declared, adding “we are impressed by the setting up of the task force which is a pointer to one of the seven-point agenda of President Yar'Adua.

While observing that the deltaic nature of the state has exposed it to various acts of criminality, he acknowledged that the creation of the agency has further brought security to the center stage, saying “taking security seriously means we have started tackling development because without security, there can't be development”.

Governor Amaechi who thanked the team for visiting the state expressed  optimism on the performance of the members, adding “for you to have been selected means that you are good enough to serve the country.

In his speech, Chairman of the Inter-Agency Maritime Security Task Force on Acts of Illegalities in Nigerian Waters (IAMSTF), Rear Admiral Dele Ezeoba, stated  that the agency, constituted by the federal government has a 90-day mandate to complete its assignment.

Its mandate, he emphasized, includes checking illegalities and security breaches on the nation's coastal waters, investigating and monitoring oil and gas firms' activities, reviewing and strengthening security and regulatory agencies in the nation's ports, amongst others.

Declaring the Niger-Delta as the live-wire of the nation, Rear Admiral Ezeoba stated that security of the area was key to the actualization of the federal government's seven point agenda, observing that while efforts were being made on the part of the Rivers State Government at ensuring peace on the waterways, a lot still needs to be done.

Page 5 Cover News

By Paschal Agbada

There is no doubting the fact that the Federal Government would have been spurred by the rising crime wave in the country into setting up what people have termed a tacit approval for the launching of community policing.

A security  group by the name Vigilante Group of Nigeria VGN is vested with the responsibility of strengthening the project.

Members of the group on investigation intimated that a vast majority of locals from our communities will be adequately trained and equipped  in the art of crime prevention and handling.

In the framework according to our source, the VGN will work with the Nigerian Police Force, NPF and the State Security Service, SSS which as at the time of going to the press is said to have commenced screening of recruits.

The heads of the VGN met in Abuja on Saturday to carefully streamline modalities for the mode of operation of the organization.

While the VGN is in the waiting to formally present the President Umaru Musa Yar'adua with their planned programmes, it has however, gone ahead with naming a lawyer Mallam Usman Mohammed as its substantive National Commander.

Nevertheless, President Yar'Adua according to the group will be the Grand Patron of the group.

“The VGN is a people-driven security arrangement which will ensure that the people are active in securing their lives, their property and protecting the totality of the environment.

The VGN will be present in every Nigerian village, it will involve decent men and women and a lot of volunteers will be active participants in the process including but not limited to professionals and artisans alike, a retired senior army officer who is in the rank of the VGN divulged.

According to our source, the founding of the VGN is in line with recommendations of the United Nations-UN on community, public security and safety noting that really the Nigerian Police  is doing its best in a hostile and very unworkable environment but reiterated that the effective security of our land-Nigeria as it is today strictly requires the collaboration of groups like the VGN.

The experienced army retiree emphasized that a lot of Nigerians are naturally not well informed about certain basic security issues.

Based on that he continued,  the VGN in collaboration with the Federal and State Governments will constantly make available enough security details for decent and responsible people in the land.

Beam checks revealed that the idea of community policing, its modus operandi, merits and long term effects on the society was muted to the Federal Government during the Obasanjo's regime in 1999 precisely but a few logistic bottlenecks put a spanner to the project. But right now, according to him and since mid last year when President Yar'Adua showed keen interest a lot of spade work has been going on to start the organization.

The President according to sources seem committed to seeing the project off the ground  by promising to give his full backing and support.

Surprisingly, up north according to reports the VGN has already been adopted as an integral part of the security system.

Beam checks further revealed that the VGN is to be established in the six geopolitical zones in the country with its headquarters in Abuja.

While recruitment will be generally across the country, each zone however will be headed by a commander who will coordinate each region's activities.

“The VGN is to recruit at least 50,000 young men and women in the South West geopolitical zone alone. The organization will work collaboratively with the SSS, the Nigerian Police and definitely other relevant agencies involved in the combat of crimes. Part of the founding rules for the VGN is that those recruited must be locals, people who understand their native environment, culture and traditions of the ambience.

The system which is almost based on crime prevention particularly has a working approach whereby those arrested will be handed over to the Nigerian Police after a formal report have been lodged with the SSS.

Alhaji Isa Lawal Akintolu, commander of the VGN in the South West commented that the VGN has a programme also where all those recruited into the programme will be insured against deaths and bodily harm.

It is on record also according to the 73 year old Akintolu that each zone is to submit three names of very credible people in the regions as members of Board of Trustees. While giving examples of those to serve as members of Board of Trustees the experienced commander stated that elected governors in the six geopolitical zones would readily form the bulk of the Advisory Board for the VGN.

All recruited people would have enhanced training in combat readiness, physical fitness, and other relevant areas that will help shape them up for the task ahead.

Meanwhile, quoting another elderly army retiree, the VGN is happy with the President who realizes the importance of involving local people in the security of lives and property.

“The  President sees security not as a gift to be given out to the people rather as the property of the people themselves and that they should be involved in the entire process of security”.

By Paschal Agbada

The wife of the managing director of the Niger Delta Development Commission has died. The wife-Alaere as she was called died in a London hospital in the hands of her husband.

While the Rivers State Government described the death of the hardworking woman whose NGO had given much to humanity as shocking, the Commissioner for Information in the state Mr. Ogbonna Nwuke stated that Mrs. Alaere Alaibe would remain ever green in his memory because of her meaningful contributions to humanity through her Non-Governmental Organization (NGO).

While praying God to grant those she left behind the strength of spirit and fortitude to bear the loss, the Commissioner, Ogbonna Nwuke noted that her death came when she was just at the threshold of giving more to mankind.

Her death was unexpected. Nobody can however, query the decision of the most high. We sincerely express our condolence to the family. She  would be remembered for what she stood for, her willingness to add value to life. It really came at a time when more was expected from her”, he said.

The acting Director of Finance and Administration Niger Delta Development Commission Elder Power Aginighan in his own submission lamented saying “it was a news most shocking”.

Further, the finance administrator noted that though the commission was being awaited with a definite statement of action on the development but having worked very closely with the Managing Director for a long time now, the news of his wife’s death rendered him seriously spineless.

His consolation nevertheless according to him was in the fact that while alive, she lived to the fullest serving man and God her creator.

Page 7 News

~Onelga Chairman- By Our Reporter

There has been a call on the oil companies and their subsidiaries operating in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area, as well as employers of labour to extend their helping hands to the Council to generate employment and empower the unemployed youths rooming the area.

The Chairman of the Local Government Council, Hon. Chris Okey Ochije made the call in his office at Omoku when he met with the Executives of Zones A and B of the ONELGA Employment Generation and Youth Empowerment Bureau, to examine their activities so far.

Hon.      Ochije stated that, it has become expedient for all the productive forces of the economy to step up action in ensuring that youths in the oil bearing communities and their environs which are wallowing in pollution devastated environment through oil exploration and exploitation be employed or empowered to ensure industrial relations among all stakeholders.

He attributed the resurgence of militancy in the Niger Delta to the unprecedented level of poverty and unemployment of the youths who have suffered deprivation in one form or the other and chose to express their grievances and hoped that urgent measures be taken to placate them, since according to him, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”.

The Chairman scored Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area as the most militancy and hostage taking free Local Government and stressed the need of appreciating this gesture by all and sundry by setting an enviable standard of encouraging the youths through employment. He urged them to reciprocate government gestures by showing more discipline, patriotism and willingness to make sacrifices for the good of the nation at all times.

Ochije made it clear that the formation of the ONELGA Employment Generation/Youth Empowerment should not in any way be misconstrued as an avenue of witch-hunting anybody or group, neither has it anything to do with usurping the landlords’ interests but to ensure that all stakeholders’ interests are protected.

He advocated a stakeholders meetings which will incorporate the government agencies, like the NDDC, NAPEP, State Employment Generation/Youth Empowerment, the NLNG, the NNPC and the newly created Ministry of the Niger Delta to address issues as it affects all stakeholders to achieve industrial harmony in this productive force of the economy.

Hon. Ochije however, commended the committees for their doggedness and achievement so far and promised that the council would continue to support them in their undertakings.

The ONELGA boss used the occasion to thank the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Umaru Yar’Adua for appointing a son of the Niger Delta in the person of Ubong Uffot Ekaette as the pioneer Minister of Niger Delta, adding that that development will bring about the realization of equity, fairplay and the long expected peace and development in the region.

He also commended the Rivers State Governor Rt. Hon Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi for his desire for peace and development in the Niger Delta Region, as well as his doggedness in sparing no effort in ensuring that Rivers State is developed to the admiration of all.

Earlier in a report he presented to the Chairman of the Council on behalf of the Zones A and B Committees of the ONELGA Employment Generation/Youth Empowerment Bureau, the Chairman of Zone “B” of the Committee, Comrade Innocent T. Okwu told the Council Chairman the constraints the committees are facing, including the divide and rule policies of the oil companies which is hindering the execution of their duties and the apathy of the Community Chiefs, Landlords and the Community Based Organizations (CBOs) who are allegedly usurping their rights and privileges.

Comrade Okwu stated that the committees are working out details on how best it could address the issues that may engender sustainable civic peace and development of the area and proposed a two-day peace, education and sensitization workshop and solicited the support of all.

The Chairman House Committee on Employment Generation/Youth Empowerment Onelga Legislative Assembly, Hon. Vincent Anwakobe and the Secretary of Zone “B” of the Committee Hon. Clever Orukwowu who spoke unilaterally lamented the neglect the people of the area had suffered over the years and called for positive measures to ameliorate the situation to emancipate the predicament facing the people.

Giving the vote of thanks the Chairman Zone “A” of the ONELGA Employment Generation/Youth Empowerment Bureau, Sir Sylva Ugwube thanked the Chairman Hon. Chris Ochije for his vision in leadership and prayed God to give him wisdom and strength to carry out his agenda of service to the people.

Former Rivers State Deputy Governor, Sir Gabriel Toby, has celebrated his seventieth birthday and forty-third anniversary with a commitment  to uplift assist and alleviate various difficulties plaguing the less privileged society.

Sir Toby made the commitment through the launch of the Gabriel Toby Educational Foundation for the education of the children with special needs at a reception in commemoration of the anniversary in Port Harcourt.

Introduced by his daughter, Mrs. Ibim Semenitari, Sir Toby explained that the purpose of the Foundation was to give a helping hand to the less privileged by supporting them to realizing their full potentials, especially in the area of education.

She stated that the Foundation, the brainchild of Gabriel and Christie Toby, aims at empowering children with special needs to be contributing members of the society.

In his speech, Vice President Goodluck Jonathan, represented by his Special Adviser on Legal Matters, Barr. Ahmed Gula, remarked that “Rivers State is blessed with people like Gabriel Toby” and enjoined all to emulate his character.

Also speaking, Rivers State Governor, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Amaechi, reiterated the need for due process in governance which Sir Gabriel Toby stood for, stressing that better infrastructure, improved social amenities and services were the best legacy worth leaving for coming generations.

Emphasizing that any generation that is departing without a succession plan should think twice. The state governor expressed satisfaction at the laudable attributes of the former Deputy Governor, explaining that his wealth of experience would provide a foundation for the present governor in the state.

In a paper christened “Civil Service, Public Service, State Building and Sir G.T.G. Toby”, Professor Bedford Fubara of the Rivers State University of Science and Technology emphasized that good governance is essential to sustainable government, noting that entrenchment in the scheme of things has remained the concern of Sir Gabriel Toby.

According to the professor, sound economic policies, solid democratic institutions and improved infrastructure are the basis for sustained economic growth, poverty eradication, peace and security, domestic stability and respect for human rights.

In his speech, the celebrant, Sir Gabriel Toby, called on  christians to rededicate themselves to the service of God and humanity as a way of arresting the rise in criminality and emphasized the need to halt the negative trend by practicing true christianity.

Sir Toby, who earlier spoke during the thanksgiving service at St. Cyprian's Anglican Church, Port Harcourt, attributed his growth in life to discipline and contentment.

Highlights of the event were toast to the celebrant and his wife and the cutting of birthday/wedding anniversary cakes where the celebrant and his wife were supported by Governor Amaechi, his wife, Judith, his deputy, Engr. Tele Ikuru and other dignitaries.

The Rivers State Government says its decision to freeze all capital expenditure accounts is a mere control measure to ensure transparency and accountability in spending government funds.

The State Commissioner for Information, Mr Ogbonna Nwuke made the clarification today in an interview with newsmen in his office in Port Harcourt .

Mr Nwuke, who explained that it is a mechanism any responsible government should put in place for frugal spending, pointed out that the Executive has presented the 2009 budget to the legislature and it would be wrong for any department or agency of government to spend money from the budget that has not been given legal backing.

He said the step, rather than being criticized, deserves commendation as it was taken to ensure accountability  in government expenditure.

The Commissioner stated that this development does not affect on-going projects as such projects have already been financed and so does not require budgetary clearance

According to him, the expenditure government stopped are those that may emanate from the Ministries, Parastatals and Agencies that may be classified as expenditures without proper authorization.

On the statement allegedly credited to the State House of Assembly, that the 2009 state budget was fraudulent, the Information Commissioner said since at the moment the document has not been passed into law, it cannot be described as fraudulent.

Mr Nwuke explained that the budget was one that all members of the Executive worked very hard to prepare taking into cognizance the economic meltdown which has threatened to introduce economic recession globally.

The Commissioner observed that the legislator in question may have been quoted out of context adding that the Ministry of Justice is in the process of concluding work on the said enabling law.

By Ihuoma Ojinta Snr.

The governor of Rivers State, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi has directed Rivers State Sustainable Development Agency, RSSDA, Ministry of Women Affairs, and Rivers State Micro-Finance Agency to partner with the National Poverty Eradication Programme (NAPEP), to ensure the effective management of the various credit scheme of the government.

Gov. Amaechi explained that the essence of the partnership was to achieve the desired goals of the credit schemes, and wondered why the people have refused to access the N2 billion deposited with First City Monument Bank, FCMB, to established small scale businesses of their own.

He explained that Rivers State Government had expended nearly N4million on poverty reduction programmes including the six hundred and forty-eight million naira for widow’s micro credit scheme and the N250m poverty reduction counterpart funding deposited with Oceanic Bank by the previous administration.

Amaechi who gave the directive during the presentation of the National Poverty Eradication Programme (NAPEP) sustainable Economic Development Solution, by the National Coordinator of NAPEP, Dr. Magnus Kpakol in Port Harcourt said there is need to put up a formidable approach that would ensure the realization of poverty eradication objective.

Dr. Kpakol in his remark stated that one of the greatest challenges facing the country was poverty, maintaining that decisive steps must be taken to fight it now to avoid the inherent dangers that lock ahead.

Page 8 News

We have watched and read all sorts of comments and insinuations in the media following the recent visit by the former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and wish to state that most of the comments were not fair to Atiku considering his religious and political inclination. We look at most of the comments with repugnance and loathsomeness, particularly those coming from some AC Chieftains which are disrespectful to the person and integrity of Atiku as the National Leader of the party and the sacrifice he made in making the party what it is today in the politics of Nigeria. As much as we are in a democratic environment, we must allow the principle of democracy to prevail by hearing from the person involved before judging and casting all manners of aspersions on such a person. Sadly, Atiku was not given any opportunity to defend himself in this regard and that to us is very unfair, rash, unfortunate and hasty. We must note that the status of Atiku as the embodiment of our nascent democracy, he is above parochial interest and thinking of any political party. Without mincing words, the truism still stand that those of us in Rivers State are aware of what most of the draconian and unprincipled manoeuvre of the former President has caused us and is still causing us in the State but that does not mean that we should consider Chief Obasanjo as a leper among civilised politicians. We are also aware that most of his bad policy, highhandedness, autocratic, unprincipled and undemocratic steps resulted to the economic woes that befell us a as a nation. However, must we allow those mistakes to linger and constitute a stumbling block to move the country forward?

The above notwithstanding we accept the position of the two Leaders as their meeting was in the interest of the Nation. “We, as former public office holders have a responsibility to come together and help our country, especially when things are not going the way we want. We have to sit down as stakeholders to review the situation.” To us that is patriotism, putting the national interest above personal or party’s interest.

For Atiku, not minding the inhuman and beastly treatment his family and associates suffered in the hands of this man, he still found a space in his heart to forgive, and even visit him to us is a sign of magnanimity and should therefore be commended and congratulated instead of plotting to diminish and belittle his person. As much as people are free to express their opinions on any issue they feel strongly about, we feel that we should be doing this with decorum and in a manner devoid of animosity, resentment and acrimony capable of overheating the polity.

The fact remains, and not minding how slow President Yar’Adua’s administration may look like, he is still a better democrat than what Obasanjo represents. This notwithstanding, Nigeria needs a strong and visionary President and today whether we will like it or not, Atiku stands as the best, strong and visionary Presidential Candidate the North can boast of come 2011. What this man needs therefore is not only the blessing of every Nigerian but the support to take our country out of the woods inflicted on us by the Obasanjo era and those of us in Rivers State are ready to afford him such a support.

Atiku’s visit apart from being informed by national interest as he stated it is motivated by his faith and respect to the commands of Allah, being a good Muslim. In the selected Hadith, stated and narrated by Anass, he said: He heard Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) saying Allah the exalted has said: “O son of Adam! Forgive one another, I shall go on forgiving you so long as you pray to me and aspire for my forgiveness. Whatever may be your sins”. This tally with the bible passages- 1. Ephesians 4:31-32- ‘let all bitterness…, be put away from you; with all malice forgive one another just as God through Christ has forgiven you’. 2. Mathew 6:14 ‘if ye forgive men their trespasses, your Heavenly Father will also forgive you’.

According to the Gospel of Mathew Chapter 5:9, the Osun State Governor, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola for bringing these sworn enemies together has become a child of God as that passage stated “ Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called sons of God”.

Our only appeal is that Atiku should take a step further to contact his kinsman, Senator Jubril Aminu and resolve whatever may be the conflict between them to avoid further overheating the Adamawa polity. Knowing whom Obasanjo is, Atiku should watch his back in his found relationship with him, if past antecedents and experiences in the hands of this man is anything to go by. Once these are done, it will go a long way in demonstrating that he is a true statesman and peaceful.

In conclusions if by the act of Atiku forgiving a man that has committed a lot of sins against him is offensive to mankind but accepted by God let it be..

Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, Rivers State Action Congress, Publicity Secretary

By Our Reporter

Traditional Rulers and Chiefs in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area have been enjoined to enlighten the oil prospecting companies and their subsidiaries in the area on the need to partner with the Local Government Employment Generation and Youth Empowerment Bureau to create job opportunities for the youths in the area.

The Chairman, in charge of Zone “B” of the Onelga Empowerment Generation/Youth Empowerment Bureau, Comrade Innocent T. Okwu made the call at Ababuka, when his Committee visited the Eze-Egi of Ogbaland, Eze Kingdom Elenwa.

Comrade Okwu reiterated that traditional rulers and chiefs have crucial roles to play in educating their subjects for the various programmes of the government and should do so by interpreting government policies to them and thus, serve as a link between the government and the governed.

He explained that the constitution of the Bureau emanated from the three (3) point Agenda of the Executive Chairman of the Local Government Council, Hon. Chris Okey Ochije, whose Human Capital Development and Infrastructural Development programme stems from his policy on employment and career opportunities for the teeming population of the unemployed youths.

The Zone “B” Bureau Chairman stressed the imperative that, Ochije’s vision would provide a common platform to facilitate a partnering approach of all concerned to move our communities, the Local Government Area, the oil prospecting companies and the state to greater height.

He noted that the formation of the Bureau was not for witch-hunting but an enabling forum to chart an understanding and co-operation between the government, the communities and the oil companies, to pave way for the generation of employment for  the youths and the development of the host communities.

He however, enjoined all the stakeholders to co-operate in this all important wave of the new order, adding that government is determined to evolve a democracy that is peculiar to the realities of the Nigerian situation.

Responding, the Eze Egi of Ogbaland, Eze Kingdom Elenwa commended the Chairman of the Council, Hon. Chris Ochije for muting the noble idea of constituting an Employment Generation/Youth Empowerment Bureau, hence diversifying youth energy to various positive cum productive channels.

Eze Elenwa noted that formation of  the Bureau has become expedient to ensure that the youths become focused and productive and shun engaging themselves in vices such as cultism, militancy, hostage taking and other related vices that make the youth lose focus as future leaders of t he country.

He therefore called on the State Ministry of Employment Generation/Youth Empowerment, the NDDC, the Oil Producing Companies Operating in ONELGA and their subsidiaries to co-operate with the committee to enable it achieve its noble objective for industrial harmony.

In his vote of thanks, a member of the committee, Mr. Best Ede-Elenwa, thanked the Eze Egi for his wonderful reception and expressed optimism that his support would engender the committee to perform creditably.

By Paschal Agbada

Praises have continued to be showered on the monarch of Rumurolu community, Evo Kingdom, in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, HRH Eze Godspower Nsirimovu Chukwumgba, Eze Epara Mgba II, paramount ruler /Nye New Eli Rumurolu,  following the celebration of his one year anniversary on the throne.

Lauding the royal father was one of his highly respected cabinet member, Chief Blessing Manunyewhor Mgba, who was extremely elated and grateful to God Almighty for his kind mercies in seeing Eze Chukwumgba through during this period, noting that he has performed creditably well and hoped that he will do more good for the community in the unfolding years.

Chief Blessing Mgba, who is the Eze Kwesiri I of Rumurolu community and the Chairman of the anniversary committee spoke to newsmen who called at his palace in Rumurolu, regretted that he was not physically present at the celebration arena due to his ill-health, which according to him, Eze Chukwumbga was aware, but pointed out that he was there spiritually.

“Eze Chukwumgba is my King, my paramount ruler / Nye Nwe-Eli, I am absolutely loyal and very grateful to him and would continue to support him in all aspects for the progress and development of our community”, Eze Kwesiri assured.

He stressed that it was a thing of commendation to observe that the paramount ruler and Nye Nwe-Eli Rumurolu has done well for the past one year of his reign,  hence there has been an appreciable level of  peace and development.

“It was obvious that we have not witnessed any rancour and acrimony in the community, because of Eze Chukwumgba’s application of his God given talent and wisdom in the administration of the kingdom and for this, everybody is happy with him:, Chief Mgba stressed further, “Our amiable and dynamic King is a listening one and everybodys’ hands must be on deck to ensure that he has a very smooth and successful reign. We will continue to remain absolutely loyal and supportive to him. I am happy that we are really forging ahead under Eze Chukwumgba.”

Ezekwesiri I of Rumurolu, however declared that he has no doubt that in the years ahead, his community will attain greater heights, as the monarch would have accomplished a lot of things for all, assuring that he and his colleagues in Eze Chukwumgba’s cabinet are always willing and ready to assist him move the community forward.

He described his King as able, wise and very good servant of the community and prayed God to grant him long life, good health and prosperity.

On his Christmas and New Year message to the people, Chief Mgba lamented over the economic hardship in the country, saying it has not been easy, and advised that they should keep struggling for life and prayed God to grant all their hearts’ desires.  

Ibaa Royal stool: ‘I am not disqualified’

By Okechukwu Geoffrey

One of the contestants for the Ibaa royal stool in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State Barrister Yenke has once again sounded it loud and clear that government cannot disqualify him since the matter is already in the court of law pointing out that he will become second Amaechi in Ibaa land as his own matter is just the same with that of the governor during his legal battle with the party to regain his stolen mandate.

Yenke who said that his rival Sampson Ovua had no right to contest the stool with him considering the fact that the stool was not meant for his family and people like him however appealed to his teeming supporters to remain calm since according to him God will surely prove Himself at the end.

He accused Sampson of having masterminded all the destruction of lives and property within the period and wondered how such a man could lead the people.

“Since Ogbakor Ikwerre (apex body) has said it could do justice to the matter then I will have to give it the benefit of the doubt and if nothing good comes, it means I wil have to go back to court” Yenke concluded.

On his part, Chief (Engr.) Princewill Wakama (another strong contestant) to the Ibaa stool described himself as the most qualified person in the race for the stool.

Wakama who said he lost over N30million in the mayhem wondered how he could listen to anybody considering the huge loss.

He has also described the problem in Ibaa as a war between the demons and the Christians as the two groups are fighting for supremacy in Ibaa land but maintained that God would soon prove himself by making sure that the Sampson Ovua’s group is let down. Wakama  had described the group as a demonic group.

It would be recalled that Ibaa community had been in serious crisis over who becomes the royal highness of the land but thanks to governor Amaechi for intervening in the matter.

The governor we gathered had suspended all those contesting the revered stool due to the killings by these actors.

Meanwhile, Yenke and Wakama had accused Chief Sampson Ovua as responsible for all the destruction and killing, while the Ibaa  community is thanking the governor for the timely intervention.

However, plans are underway to get to Chief Sampson in order to hear his own side of the story since his telephone lines available to us could not go through as at the time of going to press.

It would interest our esteemed readers to note that about eight persons were contesting this stool out of which five had discontinued.

Be that as it may, there are indications that lasting peace will return  to Ibaa as Ogbakor Ikwerre is not resting on its oars to bring the warring parties to a round table.

Our prayer is, let the people of Ibaa put the past behind them and toe the line of peace knowing fully well that no community can move forward in an atmosphere of rancor and bitterness.  

Ahiajoku Lecture: Achebe urges for Unity

By Ihuoma Orjinta

The most touted marginalization of Igbo’s in the Nigeria has come under fire as Professor Chinua Achebe said it can be converted to greater advantage for the tribe.

Delivering the 2008 ‘Ahiajoku’ lecture in Owerri last week, the master story-teller remarked that despite the variety of dialects in the Igbo stock, each remains essentially Igbo.

He called on the Igbo to stop complaining about being marginalized but to use their solidarity and oneness to achieve the development of the Igbo land.

Achebe opined that democracy was integral to the culture of the people and traced the peoples’ history to the cultivation of yam and its flourishing as part of the beginning of the civilization and development of the people. (Yam is the king of crops in the Eastern part of the country).

He maintained that the Igbo must re-enact their story to enable them retrace their steps, relive their value system which had sustained the race in the past. The author of Things Fall Apart insisted that children should be given the chance to speak their mother tongue.

Adding that, language identification helps the young to respect and revere his or her culture.

In his remark, the chairman of the Ahiajoku lecture, and the Asagba of Asaba, Eze (Prof.) Chike Edozien pointed to the need for regional autonomy for all Igbo speaking states in Nigeria, declaring that Ndigbo should be allocated one geopolitical zone.

He urged the Ohaneze Ndigbo to play an active role in the realization of additional state for the South-East. He solicited the Igbo speaking states’ governors to financially empower Ohaneze to enable them achieve set goals for the people.

Eze Edozien condemned the penchant of having Eze Ndi-Igbo in Diaspora, noting that this culture was foreign and bastardizes the Ezeship. He suggested that one Eze Ndi Igbo should be elected to be a symbol of Unity for the entire Igbos.

In his contributions, Pat Utomi, the President of the Lagos Business School, decried the steady decline in value system pointing out that the Igbo culture was in desperate need for a revival. He advised Igbos to make a concerted effort on recreating positive values as this only can sustain the future. 

In her submission, the Deputy Governor, Imo State and the Chairman, Planning Committee, Dr. (Mrs.) Ada Okwuonu described the Ahiajoku lecture as a pan-Igbo intellectual harvest of ideas aimed at redefining the position and contribution of Ndi Igbo in Nigerian and World Affairs.

She expressed the belief that future lectures of Ahiajoku will blend academic postulations with empirical and scientific development and emancipation of Ndi Igbo.

Governor Ikedi Ohakim of Imo State said that the lecture was a commemoration of the essence of the Igbo man which he noted should be employed to reposition the people.

He pointed out that the resilience and courage of Ndi Igbo have seen them through the tumbles in Nigeria and beyond adding that now was an auspicious time for Igbo to march forward.

By  Okechukwu Geoffrey

The newly elected president General of Ogbakor Ikwerre Chief Sampson Agbaru has promised to make a difference in Ikwerre land during his period in office.

Agbaru stated this when members of the Ikwerre Media Practitioners Association of Nigeria paid him a courtesy visit in his house in Port Harcourt.

He said that what was paramount on his mind was to bring lasting peace to communities in Ikwerre land especially those of them involved in chieftaincy wranglings  and land disputes as he will also not relent in fishing out hidden talents in Ikwerre land.

He decried a situation whereby an Ikwerre person cannot be seen as making waves in the football industry including music among others but however lauded the few that have made names in the music industry and promised to support them where necessary.

Chief Agbaru also tasked the youths in Ikwerre land to see education as a panacea towards developing themselves and their various communities rather than engage in cult related activities which he said would not do them any good. He called on Rivers youths and the Ikwerre youths in particular to support the Amaechi-led government which  he described as visionary and ideal for the people.

The one-time secretary to the Rivers State Government specifically commended the state Governor Rt. Hon Rotimi  Chibuike Amaechi for his developmental strides as according to him the governor has performed excellently well within few months in office and called on all hands to be on deck irrespective of their ethnic groups to move the State forward.

Expressing happiness before his media brothers and sisters who visited him, Chief Agbaru commended them for uniting themselves under one umbrella and charged the Monday Wehere-led IMPAN to remain focused assuring them of his support.

He has also decried the attitude of the Federal Government towards projects in the Niger Delta and wondered how the newly created Niger Delta Ministry could live up to its responsibilities when it has been denied what is due to it at the initial stage.

Chief Sampson Agbaru is presently the chairman of All Farmers Association of Nigeria alias AFAN.

By  Paschal Agbada

A Foundation for Ethnic Harmony in Nigeria (FEHN) has emphasized its readiness and determination to empower youths from Niger Delta region.

Mr. Allen Onyema, National Coordinator of FEHN made this known recently while receiving the latest batch of 69 youths from the region that were on their way back from South Africa where they  had gone on a programme on non-violence training.

Earlier before the South Africa training, the youths had been trained on nonviolence methods of agitations at the popular Eko Tourist Beach Lagos, Lagos State, last year.

The programme, a joint venture initiative between the foundation and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NNDC) was arranged and properly coordinated by the foundation.

Professional trainers in Nonviolence and Peaceful Agitation Methods from the University of Rhode Island, Kingston in the United States were involved in the training which is aimed at helping to curb the violence in the region.

Speaking to pressmen about the South Africa returnees, Onyema, a legal luminary assured that the youths would not be abandoned mid stream, “but with the perfect ability to impart your contemporaries with enough knowledge.

“Let me assure you that you will not be abandoned. I also want to inform you that other programmes to further build your skills are being processed he asserted.

Mr. Onyema reiterated the paramount need for the Niger Delta youths to demonstrate and display traits that will prove to the entire world that they had undergone real transformation to show the efforts and money already spent on them.

The National Director was full of praises for both  President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and the Managing Director of NDDC – Mr. Timi Alaibe for what he called “putting their attention where it mattered most”.

In South Africa, the youths were exposed to practical sessions and film documentaries targeted towards enhancing their understanding of movements of the South African struggle before evaluating them and subsequently issuing them with certificates.

In a related development, Special Assistance to the NDDC  Managing Director – Timi Alaibe on Conflict Resolution Mr. Kingsley Kuku pledged that the commission was overtly committed to the human resources development in the Niger Delta region.

The special assistant further informed that the commission was currently working in tandem with other stakeholders in the region to further initiate other development and empowerment programmes for the zone and its youths.

“We have so far sponsored over 200 youths to South Africa for Nonviolence Training Programme, we are not done yet. “Time will tell and reveal all our intentions, just wait and see”, he concluded.

Page 18 News

RSHA Lauds RSSDA Programmes

By  Ihuma Orjinta Snr

The Rivers State House of Assembly has extolled the efforts of the Rivers State Sustainable Development Agency, RSSDA in ensuring that Rivers people derive maximum benefit for the development agenda of Rivers State Government. Speaking in a meeting with officials of the Agency in Port Harcourt the  Committee Chairman, Rivers State House of Assembly on Sustainable Development and Emergency Relief, Hon Kitchener Iboroma, said that the project inspected by his committee shows that the agency will achieve set objectives.

“We’ll monitor the Agency’s activities from time to time to ensure that it operates within the ambit of the law establishing it, because we allocate funds to them. Rivers people should keep faith with the Agency,” he said.

The General Manager, Corporate Services, Mr. Tonye Sukubo explained that the meeting was to review the activities of the Agency with a view to forging ahead.

He regretted what he described as “social infrastructural decay in parts of the state and assured of the Agency’s commitment to effectively implement Governor Amaechi’s desire by assisting in repositioning the state through human and infrastructural development.

Mr. Sukubo debunked rumours of irregularities in the selection of participants in its programme, “we pursue our activities with transparency and we select the best out of the best from across the 23 Local Government Areas of the state, he stressed.

According to him 300 deserving citizens of the state are presently in the United Kingdom and Canada to acquire skills in various trades and hopes that at the completion of their programmes, they will return home well grounded in  their trades .

Meanwhile, Hon Iboroma, promised that participants in sustainable development programme will benefit from a micro-credit scheme of the state government to enable them become self-reliant.

The Sustainable Development Committee Chairman Hon Iboroma made this pronoucements when he visited project sites of RSSDA across the 23 local government areas in the state. The centers include fish and poultry farms, schools fitted with ICT facilities at Okrika and Korokoro-Tai, containerized fuel station at Kono, Elibrada, Ahoada, Ubarama, Akabuka, Ogbogu and Umudioga.

By Ihuma Orjinta Snr

Judges and other officers of Rivers State judiciary have been enjoined to always work in consonance with the Rivers State Governor to move the state to greater heights. This is by bringing justice to the state not minding personalities or status involved.

Addressing a cross section of the men of the bar  at a special court ceremonial session for 2008/2009 legal year and in a rededication service in Port Harcourt Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi said there was need for the judiciary to contribute to the growth of the society, so that the state will move forward.

“I congratulate the judiciary for all their achievements especially in the administration of justice. You’re delivering on your duty.

Take me the way you see me. All of us are expected to make our contributions in the growth of the society. I may not be doing the best but I am contributing. I may assume the state is progressing, but you’re the better judge to determine whether I am doing well or not.

I have seen the achievements especially infrastructural development made by the judiciary. I will make sure that the entire fund credited to the judiciary will be released. I urge that the N1billion appropriation fund for the judiciary in 2009 budget be used for current expenditure and manpower development” he suggested.

The Governor reminded the judiciary of the need to accept responsibilities as leader and be patient with his administration in some painful decisions taken by government that had affected the peoples’ lives.

“We need to take responsibilities as leaders; we need patience to move forward. We are beginning to take very difficult decisions and actions. Today, I have asked the Ministry of Urban Development to start demolishing GRA. I am going to supervise it myself. The reason is that when you break the law, you don’t need to wait for the judiciary to implement or execute it. It is the executive arm of t he government that enforces it. So, I can’t wait for anybody to take the law into his hands, for me to ignore it. I’ll not ignore it for t he four years I’ll be in office, I have that responsibility and I’ll discharge it, whether it affects the rich or the poor.

I have told the world that I am not a wicked man, rather most compassionate. We are demolishing because we need to have better environment and water in the city. We’re demolishing houses that failed to conform with the rule of law. Every building must give 7.3 metres either side of the road and extra 3metres for water way.

Port Harcourt must be developed like Lagos and Abuja with state fund” he noted.

The Governor accused the Ikwerre ethnic Nationality of recent kidnappings in the state “We’ve a responsibility, no matter what. Its’ not that I am the governor now. I am not particularly a good man. I never tell anybody that I am a good man. The money I am holding or managing is not my own, it’s yours. If you ignore me, you have ignored your development and future. We must partner together as people to move this state forward.

“We think we’re making progress in the area of security but they (militants) now fall back to embarrass us with one or two kidnaps here and there.

Before, we cannot go to Tombia or Bakana but now people can go there without harassment. Let us find out where these new kidnappers are coming from. Let me tell you the truth, I think the current kidnappers are coming from Ikwerri ethnic Nationality. If you watch, where the operation takes place, Aluu, Uniport axis, Mile 4, it can not be any person other than Ikwerre people. How do I know? They are asking for N1.million or N 2.million ransom.

The real kidnappers do not ask for such reward.

Don’t worry, we’ll arrest the situation soon and have a better society. Take time and go to the project sites and see how many Rivers indigenes are working there. They don’t want work but needs quick money. We instructed our contractors to employ Rivers people but our people are not interested. This is the major problem facing the state”, Convey this message to Rivers people, tell those who don’t like me, not to bother but bother about the society, the environment we’re living. I want us t o live as a family.

Speaking further, Governor Amaechi said what is important is for his administration to deliver and assured that road network, primary health care projects will be ready by the second quarter of the year.

By Okechukwu Geoffrey

There is no denying the fact that the life of the immediate past chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists Rivers State Council Miss Uche Atuzie is now in danger as some unknown persons have threatened to kidnap her.

This publication reliably gathered that these unknown persons had sent series of text messages to the former NUJ Chairman asking her to get ready as plans are underway to visit her.

But the question is, what actually is in the minds of those that want to kidnap Uche as she is popularly called by her friends? The former NUJ chairman according to those who spoke with our reporter, is not a politician and wondered why such persons would think of kidnapping her at this point in time.

Meanwhile, members of the Ikwerre Media Practitioners Association of Nigeria (alias IMPAN in short form) have called on those behind such act to stop desecrating the state with nefarious acts.

They maintained that the immediate past NUJ Chairman was like every other journalist in the state whose statutary role is to help place not only the state but the entire nation on the fast lane for development. They appealed to whosoever is responsibility for the threat to put that behind him as journalists in the state will not fold their arms and allow any of its members humiliated or tortured or manhandled in the name of kidnap.

The Ikwerre Media Practitioners have also called on the criminally-minded ones in the state to give peace a chance and support the Amaechi-led government which according to them has done very well within few months in office.

Ikwerre Journalists also warned that it would not condone any act capable of putting its members in fear and pleaded with the security agents in the state to be alive to their responsibilities and ensure that these criminals are fished out from their hideouts.

It would be recalled that Uche Atuzie recently handed over the mantle of leadership to Mr. Opaka Dokubo few days ago as NUJ Chairman Rivers Council. She is said to have served the council meritoriously during her tenure.

Militants Invade Ogbele Community Kidnap Two -By Okechukwu Geoffrey

If information reaching this publication is anything to go by the people of Ogbele in Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State are now on the run following the invasion of the community by militants who incidentally kidnapped two of their illustrious sons Rowland Akpenyi and Clinton Tom respectively demanding for five million naira and one cow as ransom.

Our reporter gathered that the problem started when the militants demanded for compensation from a construction company (MIFE) in the area for having trespassed their camp popularly called Mirikiru but to no avail.

The militants a reliable source revealed, attacked the community for failing to assist them achieve their aims from the construction company.

Right now two sons of Ogbele community one Chinuzoke Egbe and Gift Tennyson have been fingered in the shady deal.

However, the people are calling on the government to come  to their aid as their lives are now in danger.

The Beam gathered that apart from having sleepless nights since the incident took place, some people had already gone into hiding for fear of being kidnapped by the militants.

However efforts made by our reporter to confirm from the Local Government Chairman High Chief Cassidy Ikegbidi proved abortive as his telephone lines could not go through as at the time of going to the press.

This publication shall get you much more informed on the latest development in Ogbele community in our subsequent editions.

Page 21 News

Governor Amaechi Sets Time Limits For Completion Of Projects. … Sacks Erring Contractors

By  Wilson Uchendu

The fast-track approach to infrastructural development in Rivers State has even taken a more dramatic turn with the sagacious Executive Governor of the state Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi allotting specific time frame for the completion of various on-going projects in the state this year.

The governor made this known during a rededication church service to mark this year's legal year in Port Harcourt.

According to the State's Chief Executive, 70 out of 150 health centre projects will be completed by June this year while the remaining health centres  will be delivered by the end of September. Also 200 out of the 250 primary schools being constructed in various parts of the state will be completed and commissioned by June this year while the remaining ones would be completed by the end of the year.

In the road sector, the Governor stated that the following road projects, Rumuobiakani to Trans-Amadi, Elekahia to Nwanja Junction through Rumumasi, First Bank to Woji axis, Prof. Tam David West Road, Airport to NTA Road respectively, would be completed by June this year.

He equally stated that the following road projects: Garrison to East-West Road, Elelenwo from Aba Road to Akpajo, Woji to New Road from Odili Road, First Bank-Woji through CIWA, Rumukurushi to Eneka/Igwuruta would all be awarded this February.

Also citing ineptitude as his reason, the governor suspended the contractor handling the New Nigeria Hospital Complex and stated that the days of abandoned projects are over and urged the good people of Rivers State to be patient with his administration as some of his policies which include the on-going demolition exercise have long-term benefits. The governor stated that fences must be erected 3 metres away from the road to enable government construct befitting drainages and water-pipes for good drinking water.

“We need to give clean water to our people, to prevent water borne diseases, and we cannot allow fences and structures to block water-pipes and drainages” the governor stated.

Furthermore, the state governor announced that his government would soon start the revalidation of certificates of occupancy to enable land owners have appropriate legal backings for their property and to avoid their revocation.

The governor equally stated that he dreams of Port Harcourt having the same level of infrastructural development as Abuja and muted that he wants to leave a legacy worthy of emulation.

He urged citizens of the state to pay their taxes regularly especially as oil prices and  revenues are dwindling.

In his speech, the state Chief Judge, Justice Iche Ndu commended the state governor for his numerous  people-oriented projects and adduced that the essence of the legal year is for the judiciary to take stock and evaluate its activities and stated that the judiciary would partner with the executive in the onerous task of developing the state. 

Justice Ndu said the second phase of the High Court complex has 18 High Court Halls, a standard ceremonial court, Chief Judge's and Judges' Chambers and Chief Registrar's Secretariat. He stated that the state now has 10 judiciary divisions, 26 magisterial divisions with 38 magistrates.   

In his sermon, the Bishop of the Niger Delta Province, Anglican Communion, Rt. Rev. E. Emmanuel enjoined Christians to live upright lives and shun dishonest acts. The first reading of the service was done by the State Governor while the State Chief Judge took the second reading during the service. 

Among dignitaries that graced this year’s legal year ceremony included: Governor Rotimi Amaechi and his wife Judith, Deputy Governor Engr. Tele Ikuru, Speaker gbaland, Eze Chukwuemeka Nnam Obi the II, Prof. B.B. Fakae VC, Rivers State University of Science and technology, Prof. Nimi Briggs, Chief B.M Wifan (SAN), Chief N. Nwanodi (SAN), Chief F.A Oso (SAN) amongst others.  

Fed. Public Service Appointments … Gov. Amaechi Makes A Case.-By Wilson Uchendu

In the bid to redeem the alleged injustice meted out to the people of Niger Delta and River State in particular in the appointment and recruitment of individuals into the public service of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Executive Governor of Rivers State, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi has made a case aimed at correcting this imbalance.

The Governor made this known when members of the Federal Character Commission paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House in Port Harcourt.

Governor Amaechi stated that the Federal Character Commission was established to correct imbalances and distribute appointments equitably amongst various federating units in Nigeria and wondered why Rivers State is yet to fill its quota” in the various appointments in the petroleum sector and other vital sectors of the economy inspite of the fact that the bulk of the nation’s resources come from the state.

The Governor equally pointed out that indigenes of Rivers State are usually short-changed in the scholarship exercise of the Petroleum Trust Development Fund (PTDF) and that the Federal Civil Service have not appropriately absorved indigenes of Rivers State.

In his response on behalf of other members of the commission, the Chairman of the Federal Character Commission,  Prof. Shuaibu Oba Abdulraheem stated that his organization anchors its operation on truth and assured the governor that his commission will continue to ensure the equitable distribution of appointments in line with the commission’s mandate.

Wives Charged to take charge of  Homes ...As Oyigbo Chairman’s Daughter Weds Spouse

By Joe Kalu

Newly wedded brides and indeed wives have been charged to endeavour to be in control of their homes.

This they would do not by challenging or competing with their spouses but by their godly  conducts and behaviours.

The Anglican Bishop of Ukwa Diocese, the Rt. Rev. (Dr) Samuel K. Eze gave this charge over the weekend at St. Mark’s Anglican Church, Oyigbo in a sermon during the solemnization of Holy Matrimony between Princess Doris Ogechi Oforji, daughter of the Oyigbo Local Government Council Chairman and Prince Stephen Kafey Abolo, son of the Amanyanabo of Ogun In Ogu/Bolo Local Government Council all of Rivers State.

According to the Bishop, “when a woman plays her role well she always have her ways in the house”.

He advised couples to be determined to make their marriages work without a third-party interference.

The man of God also advised the men to always treat their spouses as equals and illustrated this by the fact that God as the designer of the marriage institution caused Adam to fall into a deep sleep while he extracted one of his ribs by his side and not on the head or foot.

He equally advised couples to shun home video plays on marriages and family life as according to him, “most of them are dangerous on marriage values as they contradict God’s words concerning the sacred institution.

The couple had earlier at about 11.45am last Saturday January 31, 2009 exchanged their marital vows under the supervision of the Bishop who led seven (7) other men of God while the congregation which consisted of V.I.Ps from all walks of life including Lady Judith Amaechi, wife of the Rivers State Governor watched with keen interest.

The first Bible reading was by Rev. P.H.C. Akaya (JP) while the second was by Rev. T.C. Alozie Choristers from St. Mark’s Anglican Church Oyigbo and their counterparts from St. Gabriel’s Anglican Church, Bolo supplied beautiful rendition at the church service.

Later, guests were entertained by a life band and refreshed with sumptuous meal.

In his opening remarks, the chairman of the occasion Hon Paul Awoyesuku congratulated the groom for taking a wise decision adding  that it was not an easy task to find a wife either.

Awoyesuku who is also the Akuku-Toru LG Council boss, further advised that marriage was not a bed of roses describing it as a life-long partnership which offers one choice to go into it but none to exit.

He however urged the couple to be determined to make it work, and consult God in prayer when in difficulty.  

Highlights of the event was the cutting of the wedding cake and the feeding of the wedded couple which was preceded by a military display of sword by a detachment of cadets and staff of Maritime Academy, Oron who later presented the groom with a symbolic sword with which to defend his wife always.

In a random chat with this publication guests expressed their gratitude for the day becoming a reality and wished the couple well.

Mother of the bride groom Queen Feminah Abolo said she was overwhelmed that her son has found a life partner who would take over from her.

The groom’s father, HRM Caleb Agundu Abolo (JP) Amanyanabo of Bolo who was represented by Chief Acheseinimie M. Frank said marriage is a good gift from God, adding that inter-tribal marriages should be encouraged in the general interest and progress of the country.

Hon. Nnamdi Ihute, member, representing Oyigbo constituency in the RSHA who also stood in for his boss, Rt. Hon. Tonye Harry expressed gratitude for what he described as a royal wedding and wished the couple marriage blessings.

Also, commissioner for Youths Development Hon. Felix Nweke who represented the state Chief Executive Rt. Hon Chibuike Amaechi said the inter-tribal marriage is one of the best things that has happened in recent times, advising parents not to interfere in their children’s marriages.

Sir & Lady Precious Oforji thanked God that the day had come and gone and used the opportunity to express their gratitude to their guests especially the first family for honouring them in-spite of their schedule.

The best man Cadet Eric Eyo commended the groom for scaling through the hurdles, adding that he has no doubt in his mind that Steve was going to make a good husband, assuring that Princess Doris was in safe hands.

The groom in a vote of thanks said words cannot express their gratitude (he & his wife) and prayed God to reward each and everyone of their guests.

Crisis Looms In Ogbogoro Community Over Ownership of School Premises.

By Joe Kalu

If the authorities at the Ministry of Education do not act fast, there may be bloodshed as the Community Secondary School, Ogbogoro in Obio/Akpor Local Govt. Council is at loggerheads with the Community Primary School, Ogbogoro, over who has the right to occupy the premises.

Mr. Patrick Wokem, Headmaster of the primary school categorically stated that the school belongs to them adding that they were only approached by the state govt. to temporarily accommodate the secondary school pending when their own property must have been developed.

But since they were accommodated, the secondary school management not only refused to take possession of their new site but are said to becoming a nuisance to the primary section.

The principal of the Community Secondary School, Ogbogoro Dr (Mrs.) Marcus Anga denied that their new site has been completed saying that there was nothing wrong in their sharing the property. 

Investigation by this publication revealed that their property is not fully ready for habitation.

A community leader in Ogbogoro, Mr. Amadi confirmed that it was through community effort that they were able to build the schools and appealed to Governor Amaechi to come to their aid by ensuring that the secondary school site is completed and equipped for use.

Meanwhile, the said building along Ogbogoro/St John’s Road has been taken over  by some Pentecostal churches for their services.

The primary school in question is so dilapidated that one would find it hard to believe that they are still being used.

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