Page 2 Mixed Grill

MEND's Team Meet With President Yar'Adua

By Paschal Agbada

Last Saturday, the Aaron Team set up two months ago by the most popular cum most notorious group fighting for emancipation of the Niger Delta in Nigeria, Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta held a closed door meeting with the president Umar Musa Yar'Adua on the possible ways out of the logjam.

The group which was in Aso Rock courtesy of an invitation by the President comprised of Vice Admiral Mike Alkhigbe (Rtd) former Chief of General Staff, the Noble Laurent, Prof. Wole Soyinka, Major General Luke Kakadu Apaezi (rtd) and lastly Dr. Sabella Abidde and were strictly to hold talks with all concerned groups in the Niger Delta.

The meeting which according to Henry Okah should have been held earlier was confirmed by Mr. Segun Adeniyi, the spokesman of Mr. President though he could not divulge details.

Henry Okah, prior to the meeting had maintained that the only group competent enough to hold talks on behalf of the Niger Delta aside from MEND should be the Aaron group only.

However, the disturbing news concerning the Aaron group was according the Chairman of the Presidential Panel Amnesty and Disarmament of Militants Major General Godwin Abbe was that the Aaron team as comprised do not have the mandate of the ex-militants and so cannot talk on their behalf.

Nevertheless, the President unilaterally elected to meet with them based on both their individual views on the Niger Delta crisis and their collective will and perception on how the matter should be talked.

Unfortunately, Tompolo whose real name is Chief Government Ekpemupolo and who since the Amnesty saga has denounced militancy distanced himself from the meeting and emphasized that no-other militant would be part of the deliberation.

In a message to media houses he said, “the team do not have the blessing of freedom fighters and so should not be taken seriously by the Federal Government and other well meaning Nigerians. The Aaron team is out there to jeopardize the post-amnesty programme”.

A member of the Aaron team however said, “ I am aware that a powerful Peoples Democratic party (PDP) Chieftain who is driven by selfish motive is using senior government official to scuttle the meeting with the group by contacting some ex-militants to disown the team”.

Somehow, he was optimistic that inspite of such ill-perceived maneuvers that the Aaron team because of their sincerity of purpose would move ahead in the meeting with President Yar'Adua for the sake of the region and Nigeria in general.  

Page 3 RSG News

Miss ECOWAS Visits Rivers Early Child Education Centre

The new Miss ECOWAS Beauty Queen 2009, Joy Obasi Ngozika has resolved to join in the advocacy campaign on the promotion of rural child early education within the sub-sahara Africa region.

Miss Joy Ngozika stated this on Sunday during her visit to ESI nursery school at Eneka in Port Harcourt. She said that the dwindling fortune of education could be tackled and arrested through infant and early child education.

“ It is obvious that my desire is to promote early child education, I believe this is a sure way of arresting and tackling the dwindling fortune of education. My vision is in line with the aspiration and goal of ESI founded by the Rivers State Governor's wife. I will initiate an advocacy campaign to all ECOWAS member states to replicate this noble initiative within rural communities”.

Miss ECOWAS who was received at the ESI nursery school by the wife of Rivers State Governor and Chairperson of the ESI Dame Judith Amaechi, described the Rivers First Lady's effort through the ESI as a selfless service to humanity which can stand the test of time.

“I want to commend Mrs Amaechi for her vision and passion towards alleviating the plight of the less privileged children among us, she has demonstrated her love through the ESI and has put smiles on the faces of many families, she is indeed a mother who deserves commendations”.

Wife of the Dame Judith Amaechi who conducted Miss ECOWAS round the ESI nursery school facility said the NGO is partnering with all stakeholders to give the children their pride of place.

She added that over 1000 children are currently on the register of the ESI nursery school, adding that it will soon begin construction work on all permanent sites across the 319 wards of Rivers State.

Miss ECOWAS visit to ESI was the first official function after her installation.

Other places visited by the ECOWAS beauty queen are the proposed site for the ESI factory, ESI Cancer Centre, ESI Training Centres and the ESI Headquarter at 120 Woji Road, GRA, Port Harcourt.

River's 4th Golf Course Coming  ~Amaechi

Rivers State Governor, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi says a privately owned international golf course is being planned for the Greater Port Harcourt City as part of measures to boost social activities in all parts of the state.

Governor Chibuike Amaechi said this today while teeing off the 14th Air Assault Open Golf Championship at the Air Assault Golf Course in Port Harcourt.

The governor, who teed off alongside Brigadier General Ladan Yusuf, said the state government remains committed to partnering with individuals or groups that will help promote sporting development and social interaction with the people of the state.

He said already the state government has received offers on the development of the course from reputable firms from South Africa and a former Governor of old Rivers State, King Alfred Diete-Spiff.

“But it is also important that as we have these offers for the construction of a golf course, let's play in such a way that we can compete with other people in other parts of the country and win laurels”, he said.

The governor assured the golfers and those willing to invest in the sub-sector of government's undying interest in “supporting activities that will improve on our image as a state”.

Earlier, the Captain of the Air Assault Golf Club, Captain Edward Ejeh had said that this year's championship was a Pro-Am, emphasizing that the golfers were prepared to do their best to make the event a success.

Amaechi Wants LGA Chairmen Trained On Transparency

The Rivers State Government has called on the European Union to assist in the training of local government Chairmen and other strategic officers on issues of transparency and accountability so as to enable the people at the grassroot get maximum value from local government administration.

Rivers State Governor, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi made the call today at the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding between the European Union and the Rivers State Government at Government House, Port Harcourt.

The governor, who frowned at the performance of Local Government Council Chairmen in the state, said the state government was prepared to partner with the EU in the training of key officers on transparency so that the people at the grassroot can trust the management of their resources and believe in the programmes of government.

“Very few of them are doing well”, the governor stressed, while restating the need to train the Local Government Chief Executives to appreciate the difference between public and private funds.

“We will be equally glad if you can train these people according to best practices in local governance”, he said and noted that governance at the local government level at the moment was like a place where loyalists gather to share the national cake.

Governor Amaechi, who signed the agreement on behalf of the state government, expressed delight at the interest of the European Union to partner in the development of the state, and said he was hopeful that the synergy between both parties will provide succour for the people, especially in terms of development.

In his speech at the event, the representative of the European Union (EU), Mr Ramon Reigada said the Memorandum of Understanding will among other things encourage reforms and community participation in the Niger Delta states and invite the local and state governments to provide more service delivery in terms of basic infrastructures.

Mr Reigada, who is the Head of Rural, Social, Health and Water and Sanitation Unit of the EU in Nigeria, said the size of the micro-projects will be increased compared to the previous MPPs, noting that about 130 micro-projects will be financed in each state under the new scheme.

“The intention is also that good practices will be replicated by the LGAs and the state in their own resources once the programme is over”, Mr Reigada, who signed the MOU on behalf of the EU said.

Earlier, the Minister of National Planning, Dr Shamsuddeen Usman said the EU interest in the development of the Niger Delta was aimed at creating visibility in the area, promote gender equality, accountability in Local Government Areas and awareness creation on gender and human rights.

The Minister, who was represented by Mr Abiodun Taiwo also expressed optimism that the partnership between the National Planning Commission, the EU and the Rivers State Government will be of great benefit to the people.

Highlight of the ceremony was the exchange of copies of the agreement between the three signatories.

ACF Faults Govs' Forum On Peace In Niger Delta |

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has dismissed the position of the Governors' Forum which rose from its meeting in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital with a verdict of peace having returned to the Niger Delta region.

In a chat with newsmen in Port Harcourt, the coordinator of the ACF in the South-South and South-East, Alhaji Musa Saidu, said the Governors should not be taken seriously, saying “they all came with a retinue of security details. If they want us to believe that there is peace in the Niger Delta, they should come alone”.

“In Yenagoa, workers are being owed salaries, they didn't talk about that one. They are politicians that should not be taken seriously,” the ACF chieftain declared, urging the Federal Government to take advantage of this opportunity to bring sustainable peace to the region.

“If the Federal Government fails to take advantage of this opportunity, they will regret it. All the grammar will not work, the only thing that will work is transparency, commitment, and justice. If they do this you will be surprised at the level of peace that will be in the area”.

He faulted the Amnesty Committee on its decision to pay the ex-militants N65,000 a month, pointing out that it was not sustainable and advised the Federal Government to provide jobs for the youths of the region.

“They said they want to pay the boys N65,000 a month, that is not the solution. How long will you continue to pay them? If you have a job, you can buy land and build a house by yourself and take care of your family. They should provide jobs for them,” he stated.

He commended the Chibuike Amaechi-led administration in Rivers State for its efforts at remaking the State and addressing the flooding problems in the State capital, stressing “I've not seen any Governor that is working like Amaechi,” and appealed to the Governor to be wary of carryovers from previous administrations.

Appealing to the Governor to consider the interest of the North in his administration, he said “the interest of the North is not being properly represented in the Amaechi government. We are saying he is doing well to develop the State but he should also carry the North along in the scheme of things”.

Describing the appointment of a security consultant as unnecessary, Alhaji Saidu noted that “for the Governor to have a security consultant is a duplication of powers. He has a Chief Security Officer (CSO), Aide-de-Camp (ADC), the Director of SSS and also the police, so what is he doing with a consultant. What is he consulting? What we're saying is that he should allow these people to do their work. They're all capable”.

The ACF leader stated that for electoral reforms to be successful there has to be political will on the part of the Umaru Musa Yar'Adua-led administration and called for concerted actions that will build confidence in the citizens on the sincerity of the government to make elections free, fair and peaceful.

Page 5 Cover News

Amaechi Humane Touch:Orders Relocation Of Community For Health Reasons

By Paschal Agbada

For being submerged in the same enclave with a gas production company-Umuebulu Non Associated Gas Plant, Governor Amaechi has ordered the relocation of the community for obvious health implication to human beings.

Consequent upon this development, the governor also has directed state officials to properly enumerate the number of families, houses and other relevant property that should be moved so that such should be appropriated with their commercial values for proper compensation  to the owners.

Governor Amaechi who gave the order after a tour of the gas plant operated under the auspices of a joint venture project between Shell Producing and Development Company (SPDC)  and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) was so touched by the dangers inherent in a community hobnobbing with a gas producing company at such close quarters that he immediately directed the Commissioner for Lands and Urban Planning Osima Gina and the Council Chief to properly enlighten the people on the hazardous implications of the company  being submerged in the midst of human beings, families and children. This according to the Governor was necessary considering the fact that he had the right and constitutional fiat to protect his people and stave off danger and risk from their domain by doing just as he intends.

For two years the company was closed down for this very encroachment and has not been operational.

However, with developments, business is going to commence and so man and gas cannot and will not co-habit.

In the Governor's entourage were the group Managing Director of NNPC Mr. Mohammed Barkindo, some Commissioners and Chief Precious Oforji Chairman of the Oyigbo Local Government Council.

Some persons interviewed on the issue were full of praise for the governor even though one  of them Mr. John Ude noted that people may misinterpret the gesture but said it was the joy of many not to live in the same environment with the  gas plant.

Another resident of the area, Mrs. Nwimo stated that, “there is no governor yet with this type of understanding especially in this part of the world”. Her only worry she said, was that the council officials should give them enough time to relocate after the compensation.

According to the governor, one month has been reserved for the community to find time and convenience to relocate after the compensation.

This attitude no doubt goes to reinforce the governor's stand on gas flaring in the Niger-Delta as this is closely related to the issue of environmental degradation which the governor has been in the vanguard. It will be recalled that Governor Amaechi has at several fora campaigned for the stoppage of gas flaring in the South-South geopolitical enclave because of its hazardous spin-offs as he believes that human beings cannot live in environments replete with hazardous and carcinogenic substances as these are cancer-inducing agents and most importantly gases associated with oil production as in the Niger Delta are carcinogenic.

Even recently,  the Dutch Managing Director of Shell Worldwide who also doubles as the Nokia President Worldwide in a forum in Helsinki, Finland spoke on the dangers of gas flaring and stated that all over the world 70% of oil producing communities where gas is flared has been stopped only in the Niger Delta of Nigeria has that not been feasible. His reasons were not as cogent as expected. What that also means is that there might be some sort of unseen conspiracy or subterranean intrigues working against this obnoxious policy that keeps man next to gas. However Gov. Amaechi has waged a war and we are not in doubt he will win.

Amaechi Scores Council Chairmen Low

By Okechukwu Geoffrey

It is quite shameful to note that out of the twenty three council chairmen in the state only five have been able to live up to expectation even after the state Governor Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi had taken over the payment of teachers salary which hitherto was their excuse for not being able to develop the communities under their care.

Now the question is, what are these council chairmen doing with all the huge allocations accruing to them monthly from the federation account?

Again, what is the State House of Assembly and the State Ministry of Local Government Affairs doing to put this chairmen on the right track? Does it mean that the Chairmen can squander the monies made available to them without even the governor asking why?

The governor as a matter of fact may not be doing the state and the people any good should he fold his arms and allow this men cart away the allocations without anything to show for it.

Is it painful and unbelievably embarrassing that only five out of twenty three council chairmen could ensure maximum utilization of the funds available to them.

Some persons who expressed sadness when they heard His Excellency disclose that the council chairmen have performed below expectation except five wondered what on earth has gone wrong with the leaders in the third tier of government in the state when it is obvious that the governor is being transparent and accountable in disbursing the state's funds.

Well the council chairmen know themselves the people said, but then, even if the governor has refused to mention the best five, Rivers people know them.

The people therefore advised those chairmen who have not done anything commensurate with the money at their disposal to have a rethink and follow the governor's footstep.

This publication in its next edition may bring you names of these chairmen who have not impressed the governor and that will be after careful investigation.

Recall that the governor gave the score card while signing a memorandum of understanding between the Rivers State Government and the European Union Government House in Port Harcourt.

Page 7 News

Amaechi's 2nd Anniversary: Skye Bank, Others Named Best Performers

…O.B. Lulu-Briggs Earmarked For Award

By Paschal Agbada

A group with the name National Christian Youth Council of Nigeria (NCYCN) in partnership with Focus Niger Delta

Magazine are in the bid to celebrate the third annual survival thanksgiving service of Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi.

The national president of the group, Mr. Emmanuel Nkweke while speaking to the press, said the yearly event, was first observed on 16th November, 2007 shortly after the Supreme Court judgment that brought in Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi, presently the Governor of Rives State, adding that the thanksgiving seeks to celebrate the victory of the governor at the Supreme Court and his overwhelming achievements recorded so far.

Earlier in his speech he said, that this year's event is packaged with series of activities which include the presentation of the prestigious award to the best performing contractors and personalities in the state, saying that the two-year in office of Amaechi has witnessed monumental achievements arising from the joint efforts of those contractors that had performed on schedule and creditably well in the state.

He further said that the essence of the award is to be an added celebration for those awarded with state contracts to have completed their projects above 80% for which the state governor is proud.

Establishments and individuals to be awarded after 60 days of assessment and confirmation of their projects completion are Monier Construction Company (MCC), Reynold Construction Company (RCC), EST Master Construction, Drax Construction Company, Avot Nigeria Limited, Premium Microfinance Bank and Skye Bank.

Others include Chief O.B. Lulu Briggs for his selfless humanitarian services in the state through his Foundation, Hon. John Edum, Vice Chairman of Abua/Odual Local Government for his punctuality and efficiency at the council as well as the Empowerment Support Initiative (ESI), an NGO, for its support towards the promotion and empowerment of womanhood in the state.

The president of the group went back to his memory lane to say that the last thanksgiving service under the distinguished chairmanship of Hon. Chidi Lloyd that showcased the seven best local government chairmen in Rivers State on their 100days in office in 2008 had offered opportunities to deserving council chairmen to be placed on the annals of political history.

During that event, Hon. Udi Odum, Chairman of Abua/Odua LG won award for Outstanding Performance in Rivers State for year 2008, while Hon. Cassidy Ikegbidi, Chairman of Ahoada East LG won the overall Excellent Performance Award in 2008.

Mr. Emmanuel Nkweke maintained that the event will also feature the naming ceremony of children born on 25th October, 2009 at UPTH and BMH after Governor Amaechi if being a male child and after the First Lady, Mrs. Judith Amaechi if being a female child respectively, and that the plans to feed 1000 widows and orphans in the state are still on course saying that the governor has warned those congratulating him on the pages of newspapers to direct their resources towards supporting the less-privileged in our society.

He however, said that this is an opportunity for all lovers of Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi-led administration to display their appreciation and solidarity.   

He promised to sustain the programme even if lack of funds for sponsorship has been NCYCN's major challenges, expressing appreciation for the support of the first distinguished chairman of the programme, Hon. Sam Agwor, special adviser to the Governor on Public Private Partnership who loves to encourage the group.

He always identifies with the group for the success of this programme each year, explaining that the thanksgiving aspect of the programme is a memorial service billed for Monday, 30th November 2009 at Presidential Hotel, Port

Ex-Militants Stage Protest-By  Okechukwu Geoffrey

Repentant militants at the rehabilitation centre Aluu in Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State on Sunday November 15, 2009 staged a peaceful protest calling on government to come to their aid as they are suffering untold hardship at the Rehabilitation Centre Aluu.

The ex-militants who cordoned off the Uniport junction with placards written on them-“we are suffering, no light, no food, no water, Government please help us, so that we don't resort to arms”, told our correspondent during the protest that some persons are trying to politicize the post-amnesty arrangements of Mr. President whom they said, has good intentions for the Niger Delta region.

They particularly called on the government to look into their plights pointing out that the rehabilitation centre where they are being kept has no facilities.

According to them, the centre has no water, light, not to talk of food and said they have been sustaining themselves through “mama-put” local restaurants around the area.

The ex-militants who complained of non-payment of their salaries also said that some of them are seriously ill without any medical attention, adding that accommodation in the centre is nothing to write home about as they are made to sleep on the floor since there is no bed.

The ex-militants who pleaded with the media to assist in letting government know what they are passing through at the rehabilitation centre however, said they were no longer ready to carry arms but begged government to fulfill its own side of the bargain because according to them, they are ready for peace and not violence again.

It would interest our teeming readers to know that the protest by the ex-militants caused a heavy hold-up at the Uniport roundabout for hours on that day as the protest wore on.

Residents Blame Individuals For Causing Flooding In P.H

By  Okechukwu Geoffrey

Residents whose areas were flooded shortly after yesterday's early morning down pour have told our correspondent that the individuals are also responsible for the endless flooding in Port Harcourt. Some of them who said they could not go to work yesterday due to the fact that their place of abode were over flooded however said that the individuals are not helping matters at all, as some of them are still hell bent in blocking the drains.

One of the women whose area was also flooded after the rains said her children couldn't go to school because the area where they live became over flooded shortly after the Monday (Nov. 16, 2009) morning rains.

Areas that were badly affected after the rains yesterday included Ada George Road, Jamaica Road along East/West Road, Iwofe Road, St John/Victory Road along Wimpey, First Bank along Aba Road, Airforce Junction/Woji area in GRA, Mgbuakara/Eliparanwo Road, Mile III area and Igwuruta/Itche Road among others.

Residents are therefore calling on government to come to their aid by ensuring that all necessary machineries are put in place to checkmate the flood in their areas as they can no longer move out to cook for what to eat due to flooding.

Aware of the efforts government is making to checkmate flooding in the Port Harcourt metropolis the people commended the present administration under the able leadership of Rt. Hon. Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi for its people oriented projects but described flooding as a thorn in their flesh.

When contacted the chairman of the committee incharge of handling flooding in the state Mr. Godstime Orlukwu sympathize with all those whose areas were over flooded due to yesterday's rains but assured them that his committee was doing everything possible to ensure that the people do not suffer the same problem in subsequent years and appealed to those who are still blocking the drains to desist as they will be made to face the full wrath of the law if they are caught.

Some of the residents who gave their names as Brown, Victor and John said until certain buildings are demolished all efforts aimed at tackling flooding would be in vain. Uniport/Aluu Road and Obi Wali Road were also flooded they informed.

Page 10 News

EMOLGA Students Visit Board Member

By  Okechukwu Geoffrey

The National Union of Emolga Students Uniport chapter recently paid a courtesy visit to Hon. Lucky Ugochukwu Worluh, Board member I in the Rivers State Universal Basic Education Board in his office in Port Harcourt.

Speaking through its president, Comrade Wonodi Egbunowozo, the group said they were in his office to celebrate and to thank God for his recent appointment as Board member of the Rivers State UBE board and to also acquaint him with the activities of the union since it came on board.

According to the union's president the body has among other things organized tutorial classes for its members as a way of promoting academic excellence and ensure that its members are acquainted with all the necessary information and the need to excel in their studies.

He also said that they went ahead to initiate the Technical Interest Group (TIG) and invited trainees from schlumberger and other firms to orientate the students on how to go about their projects and essay writing, adding that pre-orientation party for fresh students is not also left out in the scheme of things. 

Comrade Egbunowozo who described their mission statement as rebranding and refining the union, however informed the Board member I who also is their patron of the ongoing production of the union's magazine and almanac which he said, was the first to be done in the school.

Egbunowozo added that the students' cultural week slated for the ending of the year has assumed a reasonable dimension and solicited for support.

Responding, the BMI thanked them for the visit tasking the group to ensure that they embark on activities that are education, friendly and in line with the governor's programmes and policies.

He pointed out that what His Excellency Rt. Hon. Chibuike Amaechi is doing particularly in the education sector calls for the participation of all.

Hon. Worluh used the opportunity to appeal to the National Union of Emolga students to assist in the development of the female folk from the Ikwerre extraction academically so they can be able to compete with their colleagues in the country stressing that their (female) level of education will make it possible for them to get married to men of integrity and prestige like the president, governors and the like.

He urged the students to avoid most political groups, as a lot of them are springing up in Emohua Local Government Area and advised them not to attach themselves to any of such political gang ups but should ensure that they behave like students and take their studies very seriously and do the right thing at the right time.

The politician/educationist also called for the appointment of an Ikwerre person as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt stressing that since the establishment of the university twenty years ago, no Ikwerre person has been given the opportunity to head the university and so urged the students to also advocate the need for that as the time is now.

The Ikwerres Worluh said, are ripe and long over due to produce the next Vice Chancellor as the people can boast of a number of professors, unlike before when there was none.

The visit included the presentation of an award of excellence to Hon. Lucky U. Worluh in recognition of his philanthropic and outstanding performance in leadership and selfless service to humanity.

Foolhardiness Of Oyigbo DPO Gets Him Into Trouble

By Joe Kalu

Barely 24hrs after the strained relationship between journalists practicing in the state and the officers and men of the Rivers State Police Command was restored by the personal efforts of the Commissioner of Police Mr. Bala Hassan that resulted in the members of Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ in the state boycotting all police activities, the Divisional Police Officer in-charge of Oyigbo, Mr. Ifeanyi Nwafor, Superintended of Police (SUPOL) has got his fingers burnt by committing the same offence that caused the problem in the first place.

The DPO not only ordered the battering of this reporter, Mr. Joe Kalu during the peaceful demonstration of Oyigbo youths last Tuesday November 10, 2009 but also seized and took away his camera despite the protest by the journalist who also displayed his identity card.

Eventually, it took the personal effort of the commissioner of police, Bala Hassan, the Council boss Hon. Precious Oforji and the NUJ Chairman, Mr. Opaka Dokubo for the reporter to be left off the hook while his camera was released two days later reluctantly.

The DPO's grouse as we learnt later was when he discovered that a journalist was not only over hearing his unguided statement but that the scene has been recorded through photo shots.

The DPO and his armed team had arrived the scene (Umusanya by Afam road junction) where the youths had barricaded the road for 4hrs, 6am-10am.

Ostensibly to justify his preconceived ideas, he sought to know from the crowd whether an indigene was among them, when none of the frightened youths identified himself as one, the DPO assumed that the demonstrators must have been hired non-indigenous residents of the area by some politicians to achieve parochial aim.

Supol Ifeanyi Nwafor then ordered his men who were fully armed to start shooting both the life bullets and canisters of tears gas into the peaceful crowd that was protesting the bad roads, no electricity and unemployment of their youths by the multi-national companies operating in the area in spite of the memoranda of understanding MOU signed by both parties.

Along the line, one boy whom the youth leader Felix Nwogu identified as Uche Okechukwu was hit by a flying bullet fired from the guns of the overzealous policemen.

As the people ran helter-skelter for dear life, the police made for the barricade and opened the now built up traffic on both sides.

The DPO who was obviously bias in the handling of the situation, started some insinuations aloud, which also made the angry youths fire back at him that the crime that was the waterloo of his predecessor would soon catch up with him as according to them Ifeanyi Nwafor too is also culpable of the crime.

This made him to further order for the arrest and detention of some daring youths who later bailed themselves with as much as N5, 000 each.

You would recall that Mr. Nwafor's predecessor in office was disgraced out of office when it was discovered that instead of fighting oil pipeline vandalization he was also involved in the crime and was compromising his duty as a police man.

It would be recalled also that members of the NUJ in the state boycotted police activities and have sustained the decision for a couple of months protesting unwarranted brutalization and harassment by policemen on duty.

In the course of trying to remedy the ugly situation which had attracted the attention of the Inspector-General of Police, Balla Hassan sent his deputy and police PRO of the command to beg the NUJ general congress last month, the CP team was disgraced out and were told in clear terms that it was only a written apology brought by the CP personally with possible compensation that would assuage the feelings of the journalists.

The police complied after many faulty attempts last week and the embargo was lifted.

The CP who was full of apologies in the course of the meeting had assured that erring officers would be disciplined and restrained for better service delivery or understanding of the public.

He said the state command would ensure that policemen do the right thing always and urged the public to contact the police hierarchy at points of friction with officers on duty so that problems are nipped in the bud.

Both parties agreed there was need to work harmoniously in the interest of the public.

In pursuance to this decision the CP not only scolded the recalcitrant Enugu-State born police officer but had him posted out of Oyigbo with immediate effect.

The CP was overheard querying him through his cell phone, “why would you dabble into that, are you a politician”?

Meanwhile, there was jubilation in and around the Oyigbo communities when the news of Nwafor's transfer was made public.

His successor has since assumed duty, while some sources are at the same time speculating that the deposed DPO might have his activities at his last station reviewed.

Lawmaker Blames Bad Leadership For Underdevelopment

By Joe Kalu

Under-development and backwardness of some areas in the state have been attributed to bad and visionless leadership.

The Deputy Leader of the Rivers State House of Assembly Evan. Hope Ikiriko made the assertion at a grand reception organized in his honour last week by the people of Engenni ethnic nationality at the Jionkrama in Ahoada West Local Government Area.

In his speech Hon Ikiriko disclosed that visionary selfless, committed and God-fearing leaders are what the state and local councils need to fast track its developmental needs.

Hon Ikiriko who represented Ahoada West constituency in the  House advised his people never to make the mistake of voting any candidate based  on ethnic leaning but should consider one with the required ability to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people, urging leaders from the area to borrow a leaf from Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi's desire to improve the peoples welfare.

He used the opportunity to appreciate the State Chief Executive for carrying Ahoada West along in the scheme of things, while pledging their unalloyed support to the administration. He also assured the people of taking their request to the governor for attention.

Hon. Ikiriko had thanked the Okilomuopiri III of Joinkrama and his people for their unwavering support during his return election to the State House of Assembly and condemned the communal crisis that took place in Jionkrama community, stating that he was prepared to work with the council of Chiefs to bring lasting peace to the area.

The Paramount Ruler of Enuedua Kingdom Carson Agida in his speech appealed to the state government to create more constituencies in Ahoada West as well as more Wards in Joinkrama.

King Agida also called on the state Govt to extend the expansion of Mbiama/Akinima Road to Joinkrama Communities, provide electricity to the people as well as to renovate and equip the schools and hospitals.

Meanwhile a group known as Concerned Citizens of Egenni (CCE) has insisted that the council boss Hon. Awori Miller was instrumental to the crisis in the area, which they noted was as a result of his selfishness and divide and rule tactics.

The CCE made it clear that despite the phony paid advert, condemning their alarm in the first place Awari Miller is guilty as charged and should be made to face the music.

RSHA Comes Alive Churns Out People Oriented Bills

By Joe Kalu

No doubt the Rivers State House of Assembly must have woken up from its slumber. There has been activities upon activities every other week since this last quarter of the year.

It is either a bill is being initiated, fire brand debate, bills being committed into committee levels with short term mandate for them to turn in their reports or with definite instruction for a public hearing in order to give stakeholders an opportunity for their own inputs before its speedy passage into law.

This activation of the hallowed chambers business has not only stimulated interest of the press corps members and observers but has indeed thrown up the good, the bad and the ugly on the part of the legislators.

The development has exposed those who  perpetual  absentees, dormant members and others who have no business being there in the first place, due to their inadequacies.

The development has of course exposed the best legislators on both male and female members who are always seen in almost every committee membership.

A good example here is the case of the honourable member representing Ogu/Bolo constituency, Hon (Dame) Maureen Tamuno who has made her friends and indeed the female politicians proud by her inputs in the Rivers State House of Assembly in this dispensation.

Dame Tamuno has shown so much dexterity in the business of the House that one would easily conclude she was born a politician.

She takes her job serious and would not miss a sitting on flimsy excuse like most of her colleagues do.

This amiable lady has plenty of awards plaques and certificates to show for the accolades she has received so far in appreciation of her contributions.

But I think the most cherished of all is the one proposed by the students Union of University of Education, Rumuolumeni, Port Harcourt for being one of the architects  of the bill that propelled the R/S University of education law No 4 2007 bill,  a reality which transmuted their school from College of Education to University of Education, as the House Committee Chairman on Education.

This development has lent support to those who had canvassed for women politicians to prove their mettle with their male counterparts and not just campaigning for concessional  seats for gender equality.

Those granted press interview on a random sampling of stakeholders opinion were unanimous in voting her the 2009 lawmaker of the year.

Mr. Anabs Imegwu, a board member of the school described her as an intelligent woman who is on the verge of making history. Prof. Sokari, Rector of the state Polytechnics, Bori said Mrs. Tamuno was wonderful and deserves every encouragement. The former provost of UOE, Prof. D.J Osahogulu described her as the messiah to their transmution promising to immortalize her name in the University while the students on their part sang during their appreciation rally like the Philistines that others like Saul have slain their thousands and Dame Maureen Tamuno like David slaughtered tens of thousand” (1st Sam 29:5).

Even among other Assembly press corps members they all agreed that this vessel of honour who improves daily on her records deserves the award.

Among the people oriented bills in the House of which Tamuno is also a part of is the Child Rights Bill currently undergoing scrutiny before the State House of Assembly.

The House has reiterated its commitment to ensure that children in the state are not denied the benefit enjoyed by their counterparts all over the world.

The Chairman House Committee on Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Hon. Joes Ogbonda stated this  while declaring open a one day public hearing on the Rivers State Child Right Bill 2009 at the State Assembly Auditorium in Port Harcourt.

Mr. Ogbonna who represents Port Harcourt Constituency 1 said it is their duty to ensure that all forms of discriminations are dropped and to ensure the speedy passage of the bill.

The member representing Ahoada East Constituency II Hon Kennedy Ebeku, Hon Golden Chioma of Etche Constituency II and Dame Maureen Tamuno in their separate views said the committee would do all within its reach to meet up with the expectation and aspiration of the children.

Majority of the participants were of the opinion that passage of the bill will give the children a sense of belonging and called on the state government to put adequate implementation mechanism in place.

In her own contribution Speaker of the State Children Parliament, Miss Helen Clifford lauded the State Assembly for giving children opportunity to enjoy the deserved benefits by working tirelessly that the Child Rights Bill is passed into law adding that children will be part of the policy formulation in the state.

Those who presented memoranda included FIDA, Ministry of Social Welfare, Post Primary School Board, Sustainable Peace Initiative of Nigeria and NGOs among others.

According to the House Committee Chairman quick passage of the bill will enable the state align with the United Nations convention for the protection of the rights of the child.

He had disclosed further during the debate that the law would make parents to be aware on the need to protect their children against abuses.

Hon Ogbonda who condemned the rate of physical and psychological abuse on children in the state also regretted that Rivers State was yet to benefit from the UN's grant for children's welfare to areas where the Child Rights Acts Standard are being applied and urged the lawmakers to give the bill adequate attention to ensure that the state signs up to the international principles.

Other matters of interest to the public which attracted the attention of the lawmakers was the deplorable state of roads in the state, especially the worst spot at the Port Harcourt/Aba Expressway located within the tollgate area.

Hon. Michael West, member representing Asari Toru Constituency who raised the alarm last week narrated how he spent over 10 hours on the road for a journey which ordinarily would have taken not less than 10 minutes, and called on Mr. Dakuku Peterside, the Honourable Commissioner for Works to address the problems of bad roads in the state  whether state or federally owned.

RSUBEB Threatens To Sanction Teachers Who Abscond From Duty

By  Okechukwu Geoffrey

The Rivers State Universal Basic Education Board (RSUBEB) has threatened to sanction any teacher who abscond from duty henceforth.

Addressing teachers from Eleme Local Government Area at the board's conference room on Wednesday November 11, 2009, the Executive Chairman of the board Sir Alli Oruitemeke informed them that the era when some teachers in the state combined their job with other businesses is over and said that the present board would not hesitate to punish any teacher found guilty of dereliction of duty.

He advised those who are not interested in their teaching job to honourably resign their appointment, pointing out that the time to move the education sector forward is now, taking cognizance of the fact that the present administration in the state under the able leadership of Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi has taken a decision to reposition the public primary and secondary schools in the state.

The Chairman who embarked on an unscheduled visit to schools in Eleme Local Government Area on Tuesday November 10, 2009 described as saddening a situation where virtually all the teachers were absent from school and wondered what becomes of the children when the teachers are not around to control them.

He said that the revolution going on in the education sector calls for commitment and dedication on the part of teachers, adding that their attitude to duty will determine the future of the country and appealed to teachers to be prepared to produce children that can compete favourably with pupils elsewhere in the country.

He reiterated the resolve of the board to meet with teachers in the state from time to time for exchange of ideas and warned that any teacher who is not ready to do his/her work would be shown the way out and reminded them of the board's earlier decision to visit the schools without notice.

Also speaking, the Board Member II, Hon. Dominic Pianee warned that the present board was not ready to tolerate any teacher who is not willing to work as such teacher should not also expect any promotion when the time comes while the Board Secretary, Mrs. Nnenda Anwuri has advised the teachers to take their jobs very seriously because they applied for it, or resign if they are no longer interested in the job.

Page 12 Feature

Port Harcourt Set To Wear A New Look

As Albayrak Group Of Turkey And RSG Launch Waste Disposal Pilot Scheme  Ministry Lauds Princewill For Facilitating Worthy Initiative

From Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze Publicity Secretary, Rivers State AC

History was made on Saturday 14th November, 2009 in Port Harcourt the Rivers state capital with the formal presentation of Waste management equipment to the Rivers State Government by Albayrak Group Turkey for the kick off of a Waste disposal pilot scheme in the D-Line area of the state.

The Project is the Brain child of Prince Tonye Princewill, AC leader in the state who because of his business capacity also serves as Consultant to the Rivers state Government on Public Private Partnership investments. Having noticed that waste management and disposal was increasingly becoming a major problem in the under-serviced areas of Port Harcourt City, resulting in trash lining the city streets which was not only depressing but constituting an embarrassment to a state that was being commended for its urban renewal development plans, Prince Tonye Princewill considered it expedient to combat this scourge. His search for a workable model of urban waste disposal for the city of Port Harcourt and its environs saw him undertaking studies that had him visiting major cities within and outside Africa before his decision to settle with the Albayrak Group Turkey, a world renowned conglomerate with Head Office situated in Istanbul.

The remarkable thing about the pilot scheme is Albayrak's offer to provide services for this phase at zero cost to the Rivers State government. No contractual agreement was involved in the freight and clearing of no less than thirteen mega waste trucks, over 160 large waste disposal bins and other sundry equipment that arrived the State. The cost of the pilot phase that is scheduled to be carried out in the over a period of 1 month will also be written off by them.  The Group is optimistic that at the end of the exercise an assessment that would hopefully lead to its engagement as official waste managers of the State would be carried out.

Present at the brief presentation ceremony held at the State Secretariat, Port Harcourt where Barrister Kingsley Chinda, Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Dr.Harrison Ofiyai, MD/CEO of Albayrak Africa.  Receiving the equipment on behalf of the State Government, Barrister Chinda expressed delight at the prospect of a massive improvement in the sanitary conditions of Port Harcourt and commended Princewill for facilitating such a worthy initiative. He stated thus “...I am happy that such a great partnership is coming onboard during my tenure as Commissioner for Environment and most especially under the stewardship of our Governor Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi... As with every other worthy initiative of this administration, it is being done in good faith and I hope that if eventually fully adopted, it would not only outlive this administration, it will also be on the front burner of subsequent ones.” In addition, Chindah urged residents of D-Line to cooperate with Government and its soon to be visiting enumeration team and fully comply with waste collection directives and instructions to ensure an enabling environment for them to operate in.

In his own remarks, Dr. Harrison Ofiyai thanked the Rivers State Government for affording his company the opportunity to have an in-road to Africa through Rivers State. An indigene of both Bayelsa and Rivers States who has lived most of his life outside the country, he confessed that most of the credit for this venture must be given to Princewill who played a major role to convince him and by so doing the Albayrak Head Quarters to invest upfront in the state. He promised the highest standard of service delivery in the course of this pilot scheme and assured the Government of his company's commitment to operate within the ambits of professionalism. To ensure maximum delivery within the time framework of the exercise, Ofiyai informed the gathering of the secondment of several staff including Mr. Hakan Dal, Head of Technical Department of Alabayrak to Port Harcourt for training, capacity building and the assurance of international standard delivery.

Speaking to news men at the event, Prince Tonye Princewill, facilitator of the partnership, stated that having seen for himself he had no doubt about Albayrak's competence, as a certified Prince 2 specialist Project manager; he said he had done a thorough study of the group portfolio and their ongoing retainer ships across major cities in the world before making his choice. He was impressed with their track record and was therefore optimistic that they could do same in River State if given the opportunity. 

In the same vein, he spoke of his continued support for Amaechi's government not only in his capacity as Leader of the organised opposition in the Unity Government (FOOPP) but also in his supporting role in attracting Investor confidence back to the State. He further applauded Government's willingness to embrace the terms of the pilot scheme and hoped that at the end of this phase a larger framework will be put in place that would create job opportunities for indigenes and friends of the state.

Apart from this recent development, Prince Tonye Princewill, has also facilitated other major investment opportunities and ventures for the State Government's Private Partnership (PPP) Initiative i.e.  the new International Market in Eleme, the new Rivers State Emergency Call Centre, the 1000 bed  Mega Hospital, the Mother and Children's Hospital, the Silver Bird Cinema and City, Tumosan's tractor assembly plant and a new initiative soon to be announced in land and marine transport. “I don't like to sit down and wait for Government to do everything for me. Government is me and I am government. Why can't we help Government to help us? Without any financial conditions, we went and found a solution to a problem I knew the Governor had because I could. What can I say? He brings out the best in me. Rivers state today is moving forward in leaps and bounds because some people are saying enough is enough to personal or party political interest. We must move forward. Today I am proud to say and demonstrate once more, that I am one of those people.”

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Oyigbo Youths Protest Against Multi-National Companies

By Joe Kalu

Youths in Oyigbo Local Government Area last week held a peaceful protest seeking the intervention of multi-national companies operating in the area, to the provision of infrastructures agreed in their Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

Speaking to newsmen the Chairman of Oyigbo Chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Mr. Felix Nwogu said S.P.D.C. has consistently refused to embark on agreed projects such as road reconstruction, provision of employment opportunity for the teeming youths, electricity and award of contracts to indigenous contractors.

The Chairman of “Oha” Oyigbo, Mr. Louis Nwachukwu pointed out that the poor state of roads in the area has worsened, calling on the contractors already given the jobs to mobilize to site to reduce the suffering of the people.

In his own contribution, a community Chief Samuel Nwogu threatened to expose the indigenous contractors who have been mobilized by the state government but have refused to do the job.

He wondered why detractors would continue to embarrass the council chairman on the state of roads in the area leaving the source. Chief Nwogu opined that the contractors are supposed to report to the council chairman who would not only monitor their activities but would collaborate efforts with them in the overall interest of the people and used the opportunity to warn against those who embarrasses the chairman unnecessarily.

Chief Nwogu made it clear that if the companies operating in the area like SHELL, MIFI construction company, DAEWOO, ALCON and Power Holding Company of Nigeria (NEPA) are complementing the chairman's effort the story would have been different.

Hon. Okorie Chamberline, Councillor representing ward 9 in Oyigbo council also corroborated this opinion, saying that they have done their bit as council especially in the area of youth empowerment and skill acquisition.

He used the opportunity to call on the Rivers State Government to come to their aid by compelling the companies to look into the peoples request in the interest of peace.

The councilor also while not blaming the Governor for his decision to empower indigenous contractors suggested for a committee to monitor their activities to ensure compliance to contractual agreement.

Comrade Darlington Nwoke, Youth President, Umusanya youth Association lamented that Oyigbo community as one of those which own oil wells are not supposed to live in darkness all these years.

He also made it known that the roads were worsened by movement of heavy duty equipment by Shell to Afam, adding that what they are doing was the only language the companies understand, stressing that the youth action will last for one week.

“We have been patient enough” he declared.

Mr. Kelvin Kalu Nma, a resident of Oyigbo also said the council has tried its best but needed the cooperation and support of the multi-national companies and the indigenous contractors.

He also pointed out that nothing was wrong in the decision to empower the indigenous contractors advising them to be patriotic enough to do the job as it will also serve them and their families too.

On the cleanliness habit of the people, Kalu said it depended on the individual, adding that one does not wait for an enforcer to do what is right.

He advised the authorities however, to raise a taskforce that will arrest and prosecute offenders as that appears to be the only language Nigerians understand.

The placard-carrying youths barricaded the school road junction by Old P/H Aba road as well as the Umusanya/Afam road junction causing traffic hold-up for 4hrs from 6am-10am before the police arrived.

Before this time, a white Nissan 18-seater bus conveying some white men and being escorted to the SHELL site by armed mobile policemen was chased back by the angry youths after pouring sewage water on them.

They quickly reversed and sped off through the Imo river road and escaped before more harm come their way.

Addressing the youths later, the chairman of Oyigbo Local Government Council Hon. (Sir) Precious Oforji (JP) enjoined them to continue to toe the path of peace in conflict resolution.

The chairman however, told the multi-national companies operating in the area not to exploit the peaceful disposition of the people and abandon agreements reached with their host communities.

He promised to reach out to the companies once again in an effort to find a lasting solution to the problem and make them know the need to be alive to the social responsibilities owed their host communities.

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