Page 2 Editorial

THE FEBRUARY 13 TRAGEDY

For Residents of Port Harcourt, 13 February 2010 would remain indelible in their memories for generations to come.

For on that day, a faulty Power Holding Company of Nigeria, PHCN, cable snapped and fell on the buildings, around, electrocuting everyone around instantly.

Eye witness account pieced together by this publication showed that even those not immediately within the vicinity of the danger panicked and ran and in the process were equally electrocuted.

The tragedy was so monumental that it was relayed on the network news of Radio Nigeria.

The Radio Stations in Port Harcourt especially  Treasure FM and Rhythmn 93.7 FM quoted initial casually figures of 8 persons electrocuted while 2 others died later in the hospital.

However, The BEAM gathered that no fewer than 50 persons must have died within the immediate vicinity.

The number of people killed is purely academic

.What is of concern to us is the utter irresponsibility displayed by PHCN officials.

As soon as that cable snapped, there should have been a signal in one of their computers. And with the heavy rain posing additional hazard, the PHCN officials should immediately have isolated that line while their Rapid Response Squad moved to assess the situation.

But, that never happened. It is not only disgraceful but disgusting that a gigantic edifice like PHCN has no self detecting devices and lacks the ability to respond to a calamitous emergency.

We recommend that all those connected with the lapse be immediately suspended and arrested charged for murder to check the scandalous dereliction of duty going on in PHCN.

Page 3 RSG News

Amaechi Joins Elechis To Celebrate Daughter’s Graduation

Rivers State Governor Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi says his administration's emphasis on quality education is to enable the state produce the needed manpower that would drive the system and give Rivers State an edge over other states in Nigeria.

Governor Amaechi stated this on Sunday during a Thanksgiving Church Service by the family of Mr. Mike Elechi, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sports, in honour of their daughter, Dr. Miss  Ihuoma Elechi for her successful graduation as a medical doctor at St. James Anglican Church, Elele in Kwerre Local Government Area.

The governor who was represented by the Commissioner for Information, Mrs. Ibim Seminetari, said the state government is determined to improve on the quality of education from the primary and secondary school levels, with the building and equipping of new model schools.

He noted that the state government embarked on the construction of 160 Health Centres in all parts of the state, to enable the people have access to medical facilities and reduce infant mortality rate in the state.

“It therefore becomes pleasurable to celebrate, when we have another medical doctor in the poll of medical personnel to serve the teeming population of the state” he declared.

He recalled that recently the state government recruited 200 new medical doctors, including serving corpers, to fill the Medical Doctors vacuum in the state Public Health Care Delivery System, and redeployed all of them to the Health Centres, and appealed to the people to patronize the Health Centres in seeking medical attention.

Governor Amaechi congratulated Dr. Ihuoma Elechi, for making her parents and the state proud, emphasizing that when the state produces another professional, it provides the opportunity to celebrate, and wished her well in her future endeavours.

The State Chief Executive used the occasion to request the Church to pray for the present administration, and equally urged Christians to pray for the soul of those that lost their lives in the unfortunate electrocution incident in Port Harcourt.

Earlier in his sermon, the Arch Bishop of the Niger Delta Diocese of the Anglican Communion, Rt. Rev. Ignatius Kattey, urged Christians to put their trust in God to enable them receive His favour.

The occasion attracted dignitaries from all walks of life.

Amaechi Eulogizes Late Chief Aguma

Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State has described late Chief Emmanuel Aguma as a great politician who had a brilliant mind.

Governor Amaechi said this Friday when he led other top government functionaries to condole with the family in Port Harcourt over the demise of the elder statesman at his country home Ogbunabali, Port Harcourt Local Government Area.

The governor said the late Politician, Elder Statesman and Community Leader has left a big shoe that would be difficult to fill, especially in view of his level of intelligence that has been lost to death.

Governor Amaechi recalled that he had personal relationship with the late Elder Statesman, and disclosed that anyone that came in contact with him would appreciate that late Chief Aguma was endowed with a brilliant mind.

Governor Amaechi, who consoled the family on behalf of himself, the government and good people of Rivers State, urged the family to bear the loss with the grace of God, assuring that the state government would stand by them in according him a befitting burial.

Responding, the first son of the deceased, Mr Emma Aguma, said his father, who was born on November 29, 1929, passed on February 10, 2010, and thanked the governor for coming to identify with the family at their period of grief.

Magnus Abe Visits Victims of Electrocution

Following the unfortunate incident of electrocution that left ten persons dead and thirteen others seriously injured, in the early hours of Saturday in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State Government has called on the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) to conduct a technical investigation to unravel the cause of the incident.

Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government Mr Magnus Abe, said this  at the Braithwaite Memorial Hospital Port Harcourt when he led other top functionaries of government to see survivors receiving treatment as a result of the incident.

Mr Abe confirmed that eight persons died instantly, while two of the seriously injured victims gave up at the hospital, noting that nine out of the thirteen injured persons are receiving treatment at BMH while four are being attended to at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH).

He explained that injured victims of the electrocution are responding to treatment and assured that the state government would do everything humanly possible to assist those that are hospitalized to get back to their feet.

The SSG noted that the news of the incident was shocking to Rivers State Government, who quickly mobilized the state emergency medical team and other personnel, to save the situation.

He explained that the need for technical investigation became imperative, for according to him, power supply should have tripped off from the sources as soon as the incidence occurred which he said would have reduced the level of casualty and wondered why there wasn't an outage instantly.

Mr Abe said the incident brings to the fore the consistent appeal of the state government, that nobody should live or do any business under high tension lines, to forestall incidents of this nature.

He said the state sincerely sympathise with the families of the deceased and other affected persons, adding that government and PHCN are dealing with the incident, and reassured that the incident had been put under control, and people should not be apprehensive.

It would be recalled that a tree branch at the Trans Amadi Zoological Garden fell on a high tension line following an early morning rain today, hit a parked bus loading passengers under it, leading to electrocution of some of the occupants.

Tele Ikuru Urges More Speed On Unity Road

Rivers State Deputy Governor, Engr. Tele Ikuru, has called on the contracting firm handling the Ogoni-Andoni-Opobo Unity Road, Rivigo JV Nigeria Limited to expedite action on the project.

Speaking to newsmen shortly after an unscheduled inspection of the project, Engr. Ikuru expressed delight at the quality of work but said he was concerned at the slow pace of work on the road.

 “I am satisfied with the quality of the work done but am not pleased at the slow pace of the work,” he said and urged the contractor to “speed up the work as the rains will soon be here”.

On his part, the site manager of Rivigo JV Nigeria Limited, Mr. Kamalu Leyira, said the project was experiencing some challenges as the terrain was a difficult one, noting that “this is a very complex engineering work being done in a swampy area”.

He, however, assured on the early completion of the work, disclosing that already the earth work on the Ebukuma axis has been done while Bridge 4 on the same axis would be completed by April 2010, adding that the road would get to Kalaibiama by November.

The site manager stated that there would be no more delay on the project as everything is being done to complete the work within record time.

Page 5 Cover News

Black Saturday: PHCN Cable Kill 70

Stories by Joe Kalu & Okechukwu Geoffrey

Over 50 persons were sent to their early graves and about 15 others seriously injured by a high tension wire at the eve of the Valentine Day in Port Harcourt.

The tragedy which struck around 8.00 am was caused by a falling branch of one of the trees at the Azuabie end of the zoo.

According to eye-witness account, “the fallen tree branch was occasioned by a storm that accompanied an unprecedented heavy down pour last Saturday February 13, 2010”.

The branch had fallen on top of the NEPA high tension wire, damaging both the wire and the pole at the same time which eventually fell on top of a passenger bus with the electric current still on it.

This development made it possible for everything around the area including the wet ground to be charged and that was how the people got electrocuted.

This sent the people running helter skelter with many not knowing the area the sudden death covered and so ran into their death.

There was commotion and pandemonium as many sympathizers watched helplessly as their friends died.

Some sympathizers reached out to the NEPA officials through their GSM phones for a distress call while others turned emergency traffic warden diverting human and vehicular traffic.

Some others considered sending text messages to their loved ones warning them of the danger at Oginigba/Slaughter road and at the same time instructing them to resend the same warning text to as many persons as possible as the rains refused to stop.

Many people interviewed by our reporter were of the opinion that if the NEPA officials had acted promptly by switching off the current from the area, the death toll would have been minimal.

Many of the bodies were taken to the BMH mortuary while the injured were either taken to the same hospital or to the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, UPTH and some of them did not make it and increased the death figure.

In a swift reaction the RSG while commiserating with the bereaved families has promised to set up a panel of enquiry to get to the root cause of the incident.

According to the Deputy Governor Engr. Tele Ikuru who represented his boss on the assessment tour said the panel was with a view to bringing the culprits to book and to prevent future re-occurrence.

It is indeed painful, shocking and hearty breaking that over fifty innocent Nigerians were on Saturday the 13th of February 2010 electrocuted around the Oginigba/slaughter area of Port Harcourt following the heavy down pour on that fateful day.

However, while some persons described the incident as part of the vicissitudes of life some residents of the city blamed Power Holding Company of Nigeria for their inability to handle their job especially in Port Harcourt.

They described the attitude of PHCN in Port Harcourt as worst in the whole of Nigeria just because the authorities concerned have refused to punish them where necessary.

The residents who did not want their names mentioned also described the PDP government as only responding where it is obvious that lives have been destroyed.

If PHCN has lived up to expectation over the years at least they ought to have known when some cables were due for replacement but for the fact that even the Commissioner for Power is not a professional he definitely will not understand the tricks of this so called power holding officials in the state, one of them said.

Some persons also suggested that the trees around the zoo area be cut down considering the fact that the zoo is nothing to write home about and wondered why government would allow trees grow taller than expected in the zoo.

The most regrettable of it all they said was that the area has been in total darkness for sometime now and government didn't bother to know why, until last Saturday when the almighty PHCN remembered them as if it was a game plan.

Now the question many of them are asking is will the death of these innocent Nigerians result to constant light in the country and Rivers State in particular?

Will the electrocution of these innocent people hasten the job purportedly going on in the power sector? Will the death put an end to illegal bills by NEPA staff?

What will government give as excuse to the bereaved families?

Or is it putting them in the mortuary and paying the medical bills of the unconscious ones in BMSH and UPTH that the people want to hear?

The answer is definitely no. All that is needed now is proper attention to be given to the power sector or else government should be prepared to slug it out with the people, they said.

It maybe shocking to here that over fifty persons lost their lives in the incident.

Meanwhile, government of Rivers State in its reaction has said that only twelve persons died in the process while thirteen is currently receiving treatment at both BMSH and UPTH respectively whereas eyewitnesses are still maintaining that over fifty persons died as the cause of the incident has been attributed to the heavy down pour which pulled out one of the branches of the trees around the zoo area thereby disconnecting the high tension cable.

While government of Rivers State has promised to pay the medical bills of those in the hospital it has also advised the public to desist from building around high tension cables.

Be that, as it may, the people have also commended the State Governor for the work he is doing to revive the power sector saying that if previous government in the state had taken the power sector very serious all these wouldn't happen.

Page 8 News

Sergeant Awuse: Reason Behind His Silence

By Okechukwu Geoffrey

One interesting thing about Chief Sergeant Chidi Awuse alias Bulldozer is that he hardly throws in the towel whenever it comes to contesting the governorship seat of Rivers State but little did the people know that his intention was to ensure that either himself or another Ikwerre person becomes the Number one citizen of the oil rich state.

However even though the Bulldozer had sworn to continue to fight for the seat, information reaching this medium has shown that the young man is comfortable at least seeing an ikwerre son become the governor, a position he said, other ethnic nationalities in the state had denied the Ikwerre people since 1967 the state was created.

Take it or leave it, when Sir Celestine Omehia was illegally sworn in as the Chief Executive of the state in 2007, Chief Sergeant Awuse had all it takes to challenge the imposition of Omehia on the people Instead he kept quiet as if he didn't know the way and munner Omehia came .

You will also recall that when the Supreme Court declared Amaechi the most qualified governor of the state, Awuse in his usual way ought to have reacted but till today the same man has not even uttered any word like other governorship candidates did or are doing meaning that God somehow has answered part of his prayers that an Ikwerre man be given the opportunity to rule.

The political bulldozer as he is often addressed in Rivers Politics no doubt is known in all the nooks and crannies of Rivers State and also in Nigeria. Believe it or not Chief Awuse is a man of the people and of course there are still inclinations that he will one day take over the reins of power in the state but the most important thing to note here is that the bulldozer is a little bit relaxed because some parts of his dreams have come to pass.

It is obvious that only people like Chief Sergeant Awuse can talk and the people listen considering the fact that he has all the political genialities and charisma to lead the state.

Uptil date, the people of Ikwerre still respect Chief Awuse for the awareness he has created in the politics of Rivers State especially the age long marginalization of his people. Therefore it pains those who know the worth of Awuse to hear that someone is distracting the present government from carrying out its people oriented projects.

While Chief Awuse is not tired in his quest to lead the state someday his Ikwerre brothers and sisters including his Kalabari in-laws are still waiting for that day to come urging him not to relent.

Oyigbo People Clamour For Oforji's Second Tenure

By Joe Kalu

Overwhelmed by the performance of the Executive Chairman of Oyigbo Local Government Council Hon. (Sir) Precious Oforji (JP), the people of the area have risen in unison to persuade him to run for a second tenure in office.

A group under the aegis of “Oyigbo LGA support group for Oforji” made the declaration over the weekend at the grand finale of their subtle campaign across the 10 wards of the LGA for their cause.

Their slogan “Oforji for second tenure. PDP Power” rented the air as even the okada riders hijacked the otherwise indoor meeting.

Another PDP returnee supporters of the Chairman under the aegis of “Oforji Solidarity Forum” were also spotted with their T-shirts calling for the Chairman to run for another tenure as well-in order for him to consolidate on his achievements which they noted was unprecedented in the area.

Speaking during the occasion, Chief Akarabigbo Adiele reeled out the numerous achievements of Prince Oforji to include roads, modern hospitals, gigantic secretariat and staff quarters among others.

Oforji, the Chairman recalled was the one who revived their cultural, heritage and restored the peoples lost glory.

Chief Adiele said the modest achievement was possible because Hon. Oforji was an independent minded person.

“There was no godfather breathing down his back or overbearing stakeholders or sponsor to teleguide him” he noted.

Chief Adiele who surprisingly hails from the Ndoki part of the area used the opportunity to advise his people to support the second term bid for the council Chairman who hails from the Asa zone for equity sake.

He made it known that their action was based on the reality on ground and was never propped up or enticed by anybody, but for the Chairman to consolidate on his achievements.

On his part the Vice Chairman of the group, Hon. Friday Onyeukwu clarified that the Oyigbo council area is sub-divided into Asa and Ndoki zones but that statistical data of political appointments or representatives shows a very big imbalance in favour of the Ndoki brothers and hope for an opportunity in the nearest future when all stakeholders will come to a round table and amicably discussed the matter.

Hon. Onyeukwu who also hails from the Ndoki zone reeled out the position occupied by them over their Asa brothers to include Special Adviser to Governor on IGR; Secretary Road Rehabilitation Committee; 3 Board Members, LGA Youth Leader; LGA Party Chairman; House of Assembly member Commissioner, Permanent Secretary, Ambassador etc.

He wondered why the situation would not change for fairness and equity sake.

On his part the founder of the Support Group, Hon. Lawrence Duru in a chat with newsmen said though he too was among those who initially opposed the candidature of Oforji, the Chairman's exemplary performance within one year in office has allayed their fear that he will go the way of his predecessors in office, hence the return of the run away PDP members and indeed the call for his second tenure.

“I single handed initiated and funded the group and it will achieve its aim of persuading our people for the need to support him to consolidate on his achievement in our own interest”, Duru stated.

Mrs. Irish Ibe the Women leader of the group also pledged the support of the women and youths body for the realization of the project, adding that Chief Oforji's magnanimity which extended to the non-indigenes in their midst was their major attraction for him.

However, midway into the meeting, the Council Chairman, Chief “Ekweghi Nmegbu” of Oyigbo who was on inspection visits to some of his projects in readiness of the Governor's imminent visit to the area in continuation of his meet-the people tour was attracted to the scene by the Peoples Democratic Party's flag.  

On realization of what the meeting was all about, Chief Oforji thanked them for their concern and support.

He however informed the gathering that electioneering campaign has not began and besides the party was the one to decide who goes where when the time comes.

He reaffirmed his commitment to ensure that the welfare of his people is improved and basic infrastructure put in place in the council.

Rivers NAPPS Elects New Exco

By Okechukwu Geoffrey

The National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) Rivers State Chapter on February 4, 2010 at Hallel College, Port Harcourt elected new state Executive Committee to pilot its affairs for the next two years.

Those elected include Dr. Peter Harrison as President, Hon. Victor Green, Vice President, Mrs. Joy Nyeche, General Secretary, Mrs. Fidelia. B. Uche, Asst. Gen. Secretary, Mrs. Joy Emerem, Treasurer, Dr. (Mrs) Roberta .T. Dosunmu, Financial Secretary.

Others are Prince Victor Anosike, Public Relations Officer, Chief S.I. Ijenwa, Provost Mrs. Comfort Ezekudo, Welfare Officer, while Dr. (Mrs.) Edna Opara, Senibo C.S. Ogolo, Mr. Kenneth Atako and Elder U.S. Udechukwu were elected ex officio members.

In her speech, while handing over to the new President, the outgoing President Dr. (Mrs.) Edna Opara thanked the members for their solidarity and co-operation urging them to extend same to her successor.

The new NAPPS President in his acceptance speech thanked his predecessor for the grace God gave to her to lead the association to enviable status.

Dr. Harrison who also is the proprietor of Victory Comprehensive College Port Harcourt on behalf of the new Executive pledged to continue the good work of his predecessor adding that he will embark on new programmes that would touch the lives of the members and promised not to let them down.

He promised to lead the members with humility, fear of God, transparency and accountability, stressing that cooperating is what the new exco needs amongst members in order to take NAPPS in the state and Nigeria to the next level and pledged to carry every member along.

The NAPPS boss assured the members of quality and credible leadership and maintained that his administration would be humane, firm in decision making as dialogue would be explored in turbulent moments.

He therefore thanked the members for the confidence reposed in them while soliciting their maximum support and cooperation to enable them to succeed.

Page 9 News

Rumuwoji Market Traders  Association Laud Amaechi

By Joe Kalu

In appreciation of Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi's visit and promises to the Rumuwoji Mile One Market recently the traders have reaffirmed their support and loyalty to the present administration.

According to the elated Chairman of the traders association, Mr. Daniel Iheme “we thank God for the type of Governor we have, a man who knows and appreciated the pains of his people”.

Governor Amaechi, he recalled, had promised the traders while inspecting the completed phase of the market that allocation of shops will soon commence and that priority will be given to the original stall owners in the market, allaying their earlier fears without propping.

The traders promised to cooperate with those charged with the responsibility of the allocation and advised that the records of the original building committee of the market will be of assistance to them.

In his words: “we are re-ady to offer our own local ideas during the exercise in the public interest and in doing this, the records and methods applied in removing the traders should be used.”

Mr. Iheme blamed the incessant fire out breaks in market places to negligence and over crowding but expressed satisfaction that all that will be a thing of the past as according to him, adequate foundation and provision have been laid, to take care of all that.

“For instance he noted, there is an inbuilt fire service station with provision of water in every unit of the market, adding that any body who tries to set the market on fire this time around for selfish reasons will only have his own stall burnt.

The market chairman used the opportunity to thank the contractors handling the building for a job well done.

You would recall that the market got burnt since January 6, 2004 but lack of political will on the part of the Odili administration stalled all plans to rebuild it until the Omehia administration came on stream and grabbed the opportunity as one to give legitimacy to his government and when the Amaechi administration emerged it saw reason for the continuation of the project.

It is hoped that the second phase of the project will commence immediately so as to ease the suffering of the traders.

Youth Leader Flays 2009 Omagwa Day

By  Okechukwu Geoffrey

A youth leader in Omagwa clan Poet Morris Tenor has described love and unity as the panacea for development.

Speaking to our correspondent at his country home Imogu Omagwa the youth leader said until the people of Omagwa begin to accord priority to love and unity it would be difficult for development to thrive in that part of Rivers State.

Condemning in strong terms the way and manner the 2009 Omagwa Day Celebration was organized he said the whole thing showed that some persons in the area were still hell bent on frustrating and truncating anything development in the land pointing out that no individual is greater than Omagwa clan.

He wondered why such an important occasion could be celebrated without involving those believed to have contributed immensely in the development of the land especially the “Onwa” Chief (Engr) Ebenezer Wobo Worlu (JP) whom he said bought some parcels of lands for the building of Omagwa Civic Centre amongst others.

He therefore, described the purported 2009 Omagwa Day Celebration as unfounded and baseless since it was centred on selfishness, hatred and greed and against the wish of the people and appealed to all those whose stock in trade is to under develop the land to have a rethink while assuring those who have the interest of Omagwa at heart that the Omagwa Day and launching of the Civic Centre will be re-organized in a special way in order to achieve the desired goals.

The youth leader who also is one of the first class musicians in the state and in Ikwerre land in particular however maintained that he would not be discouraged in his quest to move Omagwa forward saying that those who have branded him with all kinds of names would regret their evil deeds in the land and called on his supporters not to waiver in their support.

He admonished the evil and criminally minded ones to shun their evil ways and stop politicizing certain issues in the area and borrow a leaf from the state Governor Rt. Hon. Chibuike Amaechi regarding his people oriented projects in the state.

The Omagwa Day Cultural Celebration/Launching of one hundred million naira Civic Centre shamefully realized the paltry sum of about two hundred thousand naira which the youth leader said was an indication that the organizers did not do the right thing as their aim was to share whatever was realized.

AC Women Donate to Motherless Babies Home

By Joe Kalu

The women wing of the Rivers State Action Congress have remembered the motherless babies in the society. Presenting some food items and toiletries to the Motherless Babies House, Borokiri, the leader of the women Dr. (Mrs.) Edith Wele said the rush period during the end of the year festivities and the need to extend Valentine Love to the children made their visit appropriate at this time.

She disclosed in a chat with newsmen that it was necessary for members of the public, especially mothers to visit the homes once in a while to make them feel the mother's love.

“Such visits and donations, she noted will encourage the staff and management of the Homes to nurse these children to maturity, adding that nobody knows what they will become tomorrow”.

Apart from the social visit, Mrs. Wele said her women group also organize and pray every Monday for the stability and progress of their Party (AC), the state and nation at large.

The Iron Lady also listed the organization of seminars and skill acquisition programmes for the women as some of their modest achievement. On the next year's general election, she envisaged an improvement on the previous ones, adding that it will be free and fair as according to her peace is what is paramount in the state now.

On what is expected since the AC is part of the Unity Government of Amaechi administration, Mrs. Wele said despite the Union the parties will have to maintain their different identity while going into the contest.

Responding a Nurse in the Home Mrs. M. Ihunda thanked the AC women for the gesture urging members of the public to always remember the less privileged in the society.

She used the opportunity to appreciate successive government in the state for their assistance to them adding that politics or change of Government does not affect their activities.

Akwa Ibom Ministers Assure Govts. Of Support

By Joe Kalu

A group under the aegis of Akwa Ibom Ministers Network (AGMN) has pledged to join forces to make positive contribution that will improve their home state as well as Rivers State where they are resident.

The president of the group and General Overseer of Love of God. International Mission Ogbunabali Port Harcourt, His Lordship Rt. Rev. (Dr.) David Okponoesip (JP) in a welcome address to the gathering over the weekend said it has become necessary that the vision he initiated some 13 years ago is consolidated and made functional especially now that most of their prayer points then has started materializing to the benefit of the people of the state.

“I am pleased to inform you that over 70% of what is happening in Akwa Ibom State today is a direct result of our prayer effort of the past years and it would be foolish for us to stand aloof now.

Let us join hands to nurture our vision into fruition” he declared. He explained that the AGMN is aimed at re-awakening the spirits of true brotherly love amongst them as well as encourage commitment through networking towards achieving great and meaningful development in all areas.

Bishop Okponooesip disclosed however that the group will work in synergy with the Akwa Ibom Community, Rivers State Chapter to achieve its purpose. As a proof of this working relationship the GO said that based on the reunion the Executive Council and Elders Forum of Akwa Ibom Community resident in Rivers State under the leadership of Barr. Jerry Edemeka unanimously chosed him to lead the group.

The Bishop also informed that the AGMN membership which consist great names like His Lordship, Most Rev. (Dr.) Camillus A. Etokudoh, the Catholic Bishop of Port Harcourt Diocese, Rev. Fr. (Prof) Vincent Nyoyoho and other great theologians is all embracing but requires purity of character.

Quoting from the holy book of Proverbs 12:11 and 22:29 the clergy charged his colleagues to rise up and build together this good work and that God will never forsake them.

He equally harped on the need for ministers of God to always pray for their leaders in authority as recorded in 1st Timothy 2:1-3.  Highlight of the event was the prayer session for the benefit of the ailing president of the country Alhaji Umaru Musa Yar'Adua his Vice and acting President Goodluck Jonathan, the Akwa Ibom and Rivers State Governors as well as other business, religions, traditional leader and other stakeholders who are piloting the affairs of the country in whatever levels.

Many other speakers at the forum spoke exhaustively on the need for unity of purpose to achieve set goals in the larger interest of the people and member ministers.

Page 11 News

Crisis Looms In Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board

By Joe Kalu

There is palpable tension brewing at the Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board as members and the faithfuls are protesting the alleged high handedness and corruption tendency of its sole administrator Alhaji Okiri.

Speaking with journalists in his office, the South-South Northern leader, Alhaji Musa Saidu said they were no longer prepared to tolerate the sole administrator any longer and called for his removal.

According to him “the activity of the Board begins and ends with the sole administrator and his son Mohammed Okiri” and questioned Alhji Okiri's qualification to occupy such an exalted post in Islamic Affairs.

“A man who does not know the Koran, is he supposed to be our leader at that level? He queried.

Alhaji Saidu who is also the zonal chairman of the Arewa Peoples Congres, APC lamented that his people were marginalized in the present administration of Amaechi despite their contributions and support for the struggle to recover his stolen mandate and appealed for a change.

He however, expressed satisfaction on the Governor's achievements so far; adding that it goes to confirm that they made a good choice by supporting his candidature in the first place.

“I personally was incarcerated and tortured by the short-lived Omehia administration because I refused to swerve our support for Amaechi”.

He lauded the Governor's developmental strides especially on security, roads, hospitals and schools which, he noted, are all people oriented programmes.

The Muslim leader however appealed to Governor Amaechi to consider some form of compensation to the families of those who lost their lives in the crossfire between the cult groups.

He recalled that in his Hausa community alone, they lost over 500 peasant members in the crisis through stray bullets.

On his opinion about the proposed constitutional review and electoral reform, Alhaji Saidu said there was no need for the exercise describing it as a waste of resources.

He made it known that there was nothing wrong with the provisions but that the problem lies with the attitude of the politicians themselves.

“Once the electorate is empowered to utilize their voting power and the politicians realized that the only means to get into power is through the electorate and not by the executive fiat of a cabal, the situation will change”.

On the incessant sectarian crisis in the country, the Ambassador of Peace blamed it on poverty and the political leaders themselves.

He disclosed further that if the leaders are sincere and pursue poverty alleviation programmes nobody will contemplate fighting each other saying that those who are comfortable in life hardly make trouble that will hurt them or their interest.

The Muslim leader made it known that God is not the God of violence and used the opportunity to task both political and religious leaders to close ranks to find a lasting solution to the perennial problem and prayed for the repose of the departed souls in the Jos mayhem.

Alhaji Saidu also used the opportunity to commend the Federal Government for saving the country through its action of empowering the Vice President Goodluck Jonathan to move the nation forward before the return of his boss, Alhaji Umaru Musa Yar'Adua, whom he wished a speedy recovery.

In another development, the Muslim leader has decried the attitude and activities of the fire service.

He said a situation where the fire fighters respond slowly to distress calls or arrive without adequate water for their job is very disheartening.

Alhaji Saidu made the observation recently while speaking to newsmen as he watched helplessly as fire gutted his multi-million naira equipment at Aba Road while the Rivers State fire service fidgeted with their obsolete equipment.

He however, thanked the Agip and SHELL fire services who raced down to the scene and brought the fire under control.

Alhaji Saidu used the opportunity to appeal to the RSG to assist the sector replace most of their equipment as well as motivate the workers.

Akpabu Citizens Debunk Media Reports

By Our Reporter

A group known as the concerned citizens of Akpabu community” in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State has warned all those describing Akpabu as a smaller community to desist forthwith pointing out that the community from time immemorial has been autonomous with a royal father in the person of HRH, Eze Emmanuel Ordu discharging his legitimate duties since 1980 without any molestation or interference from anybody.

Reacting to a recent publication in some tabloids in the state by some faceless person describing a law maker as attracting government projects to his smaller community to the detriment of Omudioga, a member of the group Mr. Okechukwu Geoffrey described such publications as a figment of the writer's imagination.

According to him Akpabu community, will always remain thankful to the Amaechi led government for remembering a community that has been neglected by previous administration in the state.

Okechukwu Geoffrey who is a bonafide son of Akpabu community however described the governor as a blessing to the people as it was the first in the history of the community that road, school, water and hospital had come to the area.

As a Journalist he has advised his colleagues in the state to always cross check their facts before publication knowing full well what the law holds against such publication.

The people of Akpabu reacted to a radio announcement and publication which described the Nye nwe ali Elele as Nye nwe ali Akpabu, Omudioga saying that Elele and Omudioga are separately on their own as they have no right whatsoever to dictate for Akpabu.

Mr. Geoffrey has therefore pledged the group support to the present administration in the state wishing the governor and all those serving under his government from the state to the ward levels all the best.

Ugo Elendu Goes Home

By  Okechukwu Uwaekweikpe

If tears and goodwill can resurrect the dead, people like Henry Ugonna Elendu would still be among the living until at least he reaches that baseline of 70 which the Almighty GOD promised His Creatures.

But all the tears and anguish that engulfed the hundreds of sympathizers and mourners who thronged the roads leading to the Elendu compound in Umuerim Nsirimo, Umuahia South in Abia State on Friday, 12 February 2010 had no effect on Ugo.

The brilliant young Engineer was cut down brutally at his prime age of 41 along the Enugu Port Harcourt expressway.

When I paid a condolence visit on Thursday 11 February 2010, it took some time before his Dad could see me.

Such was the pressure on the Dad, as a result of numerous callers from far and near. 

His Dad, Elder Ugo Elendu told me his son flew in from his base in the Middle East early that fateful day of January 10, 2010 and had come home to see his parents.

With that done, he left for his base in Port Harcourt where his wife and children reside.

On their way, their vehicle ran into armed robbers between Ngwaiyiekwe and Obehie. Their vehicle attempted to evade the robbers who immediately opened fire, killing Ugo and three others instantly. Several other passengers were wounded.

When the news filtered into the village, it was hidden from the Dad for one week while the mum was not told for nearly two weeks.

I was overwhelmed by an ineffable sadness at the colossal loss, the waste of irreplaceable manpower whose worth was only appreciated by the international community.

Our Lord Jesus Christ may have had instances like this in mind when He said, “O Jerusalem, you kill the Prophets and you kill those who are sent to you. I tell you, your house is forsaken and desolate”.

As Shakespeare said in As You Like It, all the worlds a stage, and all the men and women mere players. They have their exits and entrances and each man in his time plays many parts.

Indeed Ugo had lived and played his part. Adieu.  

Oginigba CDC Commends  Amaechi

By  Okechukwu Geoffrey

The Oginigba Community Development Committee has commended the State Governor Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi for matching his words with action by ordering the commencement of work on the abandoned community Primary School in the area.

The Beam checks revealed that shortly after the town hall meeting with the governor and the people of Obio/Akpor at Rumuodamaya the council headquarters, the governor sent his delegates who met with the people at the palace of HRH (Dr.) Ambassador G.B.U. Odum where it was agreed that work commences immediately at the site of the school demolished sometime ago Speaking to our reporter, the CDC chairman of Oginigba community Mr. Chukwuneye Echeonwu thanked the governor for keeping to his promise and urged him not to be deterred in his desire to transform the state and pledged the support of Oginigba community to his government.

He reminded the state Chief Executive on the need to open the Rumubiakalia Oginigba slaughter road as some old people in the community find it pretty difficult to cross the road to other side of the town.

The CDC boss has also reiterated the investors to come to Oginigba and invest as the people are peaceful and hospitable while calling for the employment of Oginigba youth whom he described as capable of doing any kind of job.

The CDC chairman who promised to serve the people of Oginigba however commended HRH G.B.U. Odum for all the support and courage.

You will recall that during the town hall meeting with the governor the CDC chairman stood up to inform the governor of the abandoned community primary school in Oginigba.

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Onari Brown Commissions Projects In Abonnema

By Joe Kalu

In appreciation of his outstanding performance this past two years, the Rivers State Government said Honourable Onari Brown, member respresenting Akuku-Toru constituency I in the Rivers State House of Assembly deserves every encouragement to excel more in the larger interest of his people.

The State Chief Executive Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi made this assertion at Abonnema in Akuku-Toru LGA of Rivers State over the weekend during the official commissioning of a constituency project (New Iju-Jack Memorial Hall) executive by the legislator.

According to the Governor who was ably represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Local Govt. & Chieftaincy Affairs, Dr. Tammy Danagogo what the banker-turned politician has done has thrown a big challenge to other political leaders including the Council Chairman.

He likened the Onari performance to the bible parable of the worthy servant who utilized his talent and deserved more.

The Governor used the opportunity to thank the Iju-Jack Group of Houses for appreciating and celebrating the Legislator which he described as a rare feat.

The Chairman of the occasion, Chief Ferdinand Alabraba in his remarks commended Hon. Brown for making his people proud adding that political office is not a ticket for personal aggrandizement as it is usual nowadays but an opportunity for the individual involved to leave his foot print in the sand of time by improving the welfare of his people he represented.

The Chairman was full of praises for the system of turn-by-turn for their political office holders which he noted has paid off as Hon. Brown has turned out to be the best out of the three that has represented the constituency so far.

His predecessors were Hon. Paul Awoyesuku, the present Council Chairman and late Mrs. Anthonia Membre.

Chief Alabraba also commended the direct beneficiaries of the town hall for also appreciating the legislator and advised them to put a maintenance mechanism in place for the building.

He also made it known that at an appropriate time Hon. Brown will be honoured in appreciation of his good works.

Earlier in their welcome address, the Iju-Jack Chiefs Council disclosed that the hall was the outcome of a pain-staking and committed project execution of high quality for which they are grateful

They equally stated in an address read on their behalf by Chief (Engr) S.A. Lawson Jack and Chairman of the building committee that the commissioning was a prelude to the celebration of life of Chief R.I.T. Whyte (Iju IX) the late paramount ruler of Iju Jack Group of Houses who joined his ancestors recently.

They used the opportunity to express their gratitude to the RSG for, according to them, “bringing similes to the faces of our people through the several meaningful developmental projects in our land which they noted was of high quality standard”.

The magnificent hall execution with its architectural designs and fitting, they explained, was achieved within a short period of twelve months.

Chief Lawson-Jack explained that the hall is fully furnished with state of the art fitting to the pride of the Iju-Jack House and consists of an Inner Hall, a main hall with sitting capacity for at least 100 chiefs and galleries for additional 140 persons.

He said there are three toilets, stores, office space, a 40 KVA standby generator and solar lighting of the main square.

He further disclosed that the hall is fully air-conditioned and ready for communities meetings and ceremonies. 

In his response, Hon Brown who was also celebrating his 44th birthday said he owed everything he is or have done to Hon. Tammy Danagogo his political mentor and of course the State Governor who provided the funds.

The “Amazing Grace of God” as he is fondly called said he hails from the neighbouing Obonoma community, he considers the hall as a priority project which would touch majority of lives, hence its execution.

He reaffirmed his commitment to the execution of the collective mandate of the people and appealed for their continuous support to enable him do more.

In a chat with newsmen, the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Dumnamene Dekor who represented his boss Tonye Harry explained that constituency projects are initiated by way of nomination by a legislator in consultations with his/her constituents and they will be included in the budget with the ministry of works taking over from there on for the execution.

He further stated that as part of his oversight functions, it behooves on the legislator to monitor the project so nominated to its logical conclusion.

Hon Dekor praised the appreciative attitude of the Abonnema people, saying that until and unless the people who are direct beneficiaries of constituency project start celebrating theirs like the Abonnema people, it would be difficult for all the executed constituency projects to come to public knowledge.

Chief Ibiba Ambie Georgewill also thanked Hon. Brown for being so focused, confirming that the hall was a priority project and appealed for support and cooperation for the amiable legislator to achieve more for them.

Highlight of the occasion was the presentation of a plaque and a replic key of the hall in honour of the benefactor and perhaps indicating his honourary membership of the Iju-Jack Group of Houses in appreciation.

Another highlight was also the commissioning proper of the hall by the State Governor Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi's representative Hon. Danagogo and a guided tour of the facilities by the dignitaries.

Rumuekpe Stakeholders Blame MNCs for Crisis.

By Joe Kalu

Determined to consolidate on the government peace efforts to the crisis-ridden Rumuekpe community in Emohua Local Government Council of Rivers State, Stakeholders of the community have proffered a solution which is the outcome of a marathon meeting recently.

Speaking with newsmen at the end of the meeting, in his palace Oha Joseph Ajoku, the eldest man of the community said that they abide by the decision of the Rivers State Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) and to keep pending all election and appointment to the positions of Traditional Ruler, Community Development Committee (CDC) chairman and Rumuekpe Youth.

He further disclosed however that these posts could exist at the village levels to keep the people together; Oha Joseph Ajoku stated that at the appropriate time the people would decide on how credible leaders to occupy these positions would emerge.

“There was no longer going to be imposition of candidates on the community,” he stated. In search of lasting solution to their perennial problem, the “nyenweli” Rumuekpe said they discovered that the multinational companies operating in their community indirectly fuel the crisis for their selfish interest.

In pursuant of this fact, the community, Elder Ajoku, said intends to identify the real Landlords of the areas do achieve. The companies themselves namely Agip, SPDC, Elf and NDPR will be made to produce their original land Maps, for verification.

He maintained that the policy of what belongs to anybody is his stands. (Kene Weru Weru). The community also used the opportunity to advise the oil companies to stop further award of contracts to indigenes until normalcy returns in the land.

The Rumuekpe community also resolved to send a high-powered delegation to the neighboring Isiokpo community to complain about one of their son, Rev. Humphery Nsirim, saying that having identified that his activities contributes to their crisis, he should leave their community in his own interest.

“Rev. Nsirim would at the appropriate time be made also to account for the sum of #12m he collected from Elf on behalf of the community and other allegations against him, Oha Ajoku noted. They accused Nsirim of arrogance, disobedience and disrespect to constituted authorities among others.

They recalled how he chased away council contractors with their equipments who were grading the roads in the community and in the course of replacing them with his own team, his equipment killed one of the truck drivers and the corpse was taken past a shrine that forbids it.

Therefore, the stated Nsirim will also be made to appease the gods to avoid any calamity on the community. The community leader made it known that peace had, returned to their community as the ex-militants themselves have been appointed the chief security officers of the area.

“As I am talking to you there is no more criminality in the area including pipeline vandalization” he stated. Oha Ajoku used the opportunity to appeal to the council chairman Hon. Emeka Woke and indeed the State Governor Rt. Hon. Chibuike Amaechi to come to their aide.

“We shall appreciate the presence of our Governor to come and see things for himself and make pronouncement because our community has been devastated by the oil companies”. He equally called the attention of Ogbako Ikwerre convention worldwide, NDDC, Ministry of Niger Delta and the Multinational companies to come to their rescue.