Home Blog Page 62

Ogu Community Applauds Rivers GBV Sensitisation Drive, Seeks Sustained Engagement

0

Stakeholders in Ogu town, Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area of Rivers State, have lauded the Rivers State Multi-Stakeholder Action Committee on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Prevention for its sensitisation programme, describing it as timely and impactful.

The Chairman of Ogu Divisional Council of Chiefs, Chief (Barr.) Lawrence Abiabiari, who was represented by Chief Stephen Mina-Omubo, said the initiative was a welcome development and an eye-opener for many in the community.

According to him, the engagement illuminated critical issues such as rape and abandonment, adding that some residents were previously unaware that women could also be perpetrators of sexual violence.

He commended the committee for addressing sensitive but pressing concerns and expressed optimism that participants would cascade the knowledge gained to others within the community. He also called for regular sensitisation programmes and assured the organisers of the community’s full support.

In her remarks, the Coordinator of the Rivers State Multi-Stakeholder Action Committee on Gender Based Violence Prevention, Barr. Evelyn Membere-Asimiea, said the programme was designed to equip residents with knowledge needed to prevent and respond effectively to GBV cases.
She described the turnout as impressive and beyond expectations, attributing the success of the programme to collaborative support from partners, including ActionAid Nigeria and the Ford Foundation.

Membere-Asimiea urged survivors of GBV to seek help at the Rivers State Sexual Assault Referral Centre, located at No. 32 Nembe Street, Borokiri, Port Harcourt, and managed by the Rivers State Ministry of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation. She also advised victims to contact the Office of the Public Defender under the state Ministry of Justice for legal support on GBV-related matters.

She further disclosed plans to extend the sensitisation campaign to other local government areas, including Ikwerre LGA, as part of efforts to deepen awareness and foster safer communities across the state.

“We plan to replicate this success in other communities to create a safer environment for all in Rivers State,” she said.

Earlier, the Head of the Advocacy Sub-Committee, Barr. Ere Boma, provided an overview of gender-based violence, outlining its various forms — sexual, domestic, economic and psychological abuse — and their far-reaching consequences.

She urged participants, including traditional rulers, community leaders, women and representatives of civil society organisations, to take collective responsibility in confronting GBV, supporting survivors and promoting a culture of respect and equality.

The Atlantic Bell reports that the programme, themed “Ending Gender-Based Violence Starts with Us,” featured interactive sessions on rights awareness, prevention strategies and available support services, alongside question-and-answer engagements with attendees.

Naval Operation Ends Drug Syndicate Hands Over 489kg Cannabis To NDLEA

The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT disrupted a drug syndicate, putting its members on the run and seizing 489kg of cannabis sativa.

The Commander of NNS BEECROFT, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, told journalists on Friday that the narcotics had been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further action.

“NNS BEECROFT’s patrol team, acting on credible intelligence, seized 489kg of smuggled cannabis sativa on Wednesday night around Abule Osun, Amuwo Odofin, Lagos State.

“The perpetrators abandoned the illegal items and are currently on the run, but we are tracking them.

“We have an idea of their location, and they will soon be arrested and handed over to the appropriate authorities,” he said.

Adams-Aliu, who recently assumed command of NNS BEECROFT, said his mission was to reposition the ship to fulfill its mandate of securing the waterways in and around Lagos State.

He added that the strength of his mission was drawn from the vision of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Idi Abbas.

He said the chief of naval staff was committed to building a mobile, agile, professional, and dedicated navy to secure Nigeria’s maritime domain and support national security in collaboration with other agencies.

“Crimes that originate on land and extend to the sea always return to land.

“We will deal decisively with perpetrators who continue their illegal activities.

“Some of these smugglers come from neighbouring countries, attempting to exploit our waterways.

“We know their routes, but that will no longer be allowed,” Adams-Aliu added.

The Commander said that NNS BEECROFT would continue to work with sister agencies to eliminate criminal activities.

“The handing over of the seized narcotics reflects the collaboration between security agencies,” he said.

The Deputy Controller of Narcotics, Festac Town, Mr Gbenga Adejumo, described the Nigerian Navy as the agency’s biggest collaborator in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking.

Adejumo thanked the Navy for its efforts and said he hoped the collaboration between the two agencies would continue until all sponsors of drug abuse were brought to justice.

He explained that drugs handed over to the NDLEA were destroyed by burning after a court injunction had been obtained.

“We conduct the burning far from residential areas to prevent health risks.

“While the agency is working towards a safer alternative, this remains the approved method for destroying seized drugs,” Adejumo said.

FCT Polls: ADC Faces Litmus Test As Wike’s Moves Bolster APC, Rattle PDP

0

As residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) head to the polls on Saturday, February 21, 2025, to elect chairmen and councillors across the six area councils, the elections are shaping into a crucial test of strength for the opposition coalition rallying under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The polls, to be conducted in Abaji, Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje and Kwali, are widely seen as a referendum on emerging political realignments in the territory, amid open backing of the All Progressives Congress (APC) by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The ADC, buoyed by prominent opposition figures including former Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has intensified its campaign, urging residents to reject the ruling APC.

In AMAC, the ADC chairmanship candidate, Dr. Moses Paul, described his ambition as the product of years of community engagement.

“Preparation for leadership does not begin a few days before an election. It is built over time through service and sacrifice,” he said, insisting that the contest represents “a turning point” for residents seeking accountable governance.

Paul pledged cooperation with lawful authorities, including the FCT administration, if elected, but stressed that his primary loyalty would remain with the people.

“Leadership is not about ego; it is about responsibility. I will work with every lawful authority in the interest of our people,” he stated.

On questions surrounding indigeneity, he maintained that service, rather than birthplace, should define leadership credentials in the cosmopolitan capital.

However, the elections have been overshadowed by the assertive intervention of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, who has openly declared support for candidates aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s agenda, regardless of party affiliation.

Wike, while addressing supporters in Abuja last week, said he would ensure that only candidates backing the President emerge victorious.

“I have a duty to support any candidate that supports President Tinubu to win,” he said, adding that he owed “no apology” for his stance.

His position has triggered significant shifts within the PDP. In Bwari, the PDP chairmanship candidate, Julius Adamu, stepped down in favour of the APC candidate, Joshua Ishaku Musa. Similarly, in AMAC, the PDP’s Hon. Zadna Dantani withdrew from the race to back the incumbent APC candidate, Hon. Christopher Zakka Maikalangu.

Party insiders attribute both withdrawals to strategic recalibrations influenced by the minister’s political weight in the territory, effectively blurring party lines and consolidating support for the APC in key councils.

Across markets and neighbourhoods, residents expressed cautious optimism mixed with fatigue over campaign promises.

Aisha Abdulkadir, a trader in Bwari market, lamented what she described as a cycle of absentee leadership. “We are tired of leaders who come during campaigns and then disappear,” she said.
Joy Okon, a provision seller at Dutse market, called for competence over ambition, while a mobile phone dealer, Emmanuel Chukwuemeka, emphasised the need for improved infrastructure and security.

Others, like civil servant Victoria Odumu, said their votes would be guided by track record rather than rhetoric.

Security agencies have announced a 12-hour restriction of movement across the FCT from 6am to 6pm on election day to ensure a hitch-free exercise.

With the ADC seeking to assert itself as a viable opposition platform and the APC benefiting from high-profile cross-party endorsements, Saturday’s vote may redefine the political equilibrium in the nation’s capital — and signal the trajectory of broader opposition realignments ahead of future national contests.

Senate Queries Viability of N58.47trn 2026 Budget Amid Revenue Gaps

0

The Senate has raised serious concerns over what it described as persistent poor implementation of federal budgets, warning that recurring zero allocations and non-release of funds to Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) cast doubt on the Federal Government’s ability to execute the proposed N58.472 trillion 2026 budget.

The upper chamber’s Committee on Appropriations voiced the reservations on Thursday during an engagement with the Federal Government’s Economic Management Team at the National Assembly, Abuja.

The session also reviewed the capital components of the 2024 and 2025 budgets, which the executive plans to conclude by March 31.
Chairman of the Committee, Adeola Solomon Olamilekan, said the wide gap between revenue projections and actual performance in recent years undermined confidence in the government’s fiscal projections.

In attendance were the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun; the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu; the Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), Zach Adedeji; and the Accountant-General of the Federation, Shamsedeen Babatunde Ogunjimi.

Edun, who spoke first, maintained that the 2024 and 2025 budgets were being funded and implemented steadily. His position, however, drew sharp reactions from lawmakers, who argued that implementation performance on the ground did not reflect such assurances.

Adedeji sought to provide context, stressing that budget performance hinges on realistic revenue projections.

“Efficiency is not about the size of the budget but about how much can actually be implemented,” he said. “If you assume resources that do not materialise, implementation challenges are inevitable.”

But the explanation failed to assuage the committee. Olamilekan insisted that responsibility for the recurring shortfalls lies squarely with the executive arm.

“This document before us originated from the executive,” he said. “The projections and the challenges came from the executive, not the legislature. The gap between projected and realised oil revenue is wide.

“How do we explain 18 per cent performance in one year and projections of 36.5 per cent the next year when actual performance remains below expectations?” he queried.
He warned that with debt financing already elevated, the government must reconsider its approach.

“Do we reduce the N58.472 trillion 2026 budget, or proceed and adjust along the way? If certain assets were disposed of to reduce debt, the overall debt stock would decline, and future borrowing costs could ease.”

Also addressing the committee, the Minister of State for Finance, Doris Nkiruka Uzoka-Anite, assured lawmakers that 30 per cent of the capital components of the 2024 and 2025 budgets would be fully implemented before the end of the first quarter.

She disclosed that payments for outstanding 2024 capital projects would commence immediately, noting that the government’s financial management system had been restored.

“For 2025, MDAs have been directed to upload their cash plans by Monday, after which payments will begin. We are ready to start, but the MDAs must complete their documentation requirements,” she said.

The exchange underscored growing tension between the legislature and the executive over fiscal discipline, revenue realism and the sustainability of Nigeria’s expanding budget framework.

PENGASSAN To Tinubu: Withdraw Executive Order Undermining Petroleum Industry Act

0

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has urged President Bola Tinubu to immediately withdraw the recent executive order mandating the direct remittance of oil and gas revenues to the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC), describing the directive as a violation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

The President had, in February, signed an executive order stripping the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) Limited of its powers to deduct oil revenues at source before remitting to FAAC.

Addressing journalists on Thursday, PENGASSAN National President, Festus Osifo, characterised the directive as “a direct attack” on the PIA, particularly Sections 8, 9 and 64 of the Act.

“The executive order signed by the President is a direct assault on the PIA,” Osifo said. “An executive order cannot override the provisions of an existing law duly enacted by the National Assembly.”

He argued that the President, by issuing the directive, had effectively set aside a law of the Federal Republic of Nigeria through executive fiat, warning that such a move could undermine investor confidence in the oil and gas sector.

While acknowledging the President’s constitutional powers to issue executive orders, Osifo maintained that such powers must not conflict with extant legislation.

“We believe Mr President may not have been fully briefed on the far-reaching implications of this order,” he said, adding that Tinubu’s background in the oil industry and his previous experience at ExxonMobil would ordinarily incline him to protect, rather than weaken, the regulatory framework designed to attract investment.

Osifo warned that allowing the executive order to stand could send negative signals to both local and international investors, who may fear that the government could alter fiscal and regulatory terms through administrative directives.

He likened the development to a hypothetical scenario in which the President issues an executive order setting aside the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) or arbitrarily reducing statutory pension contributions, stressing that executive actions cannot supersede statutory provisions.

Describing the order as “troubling” and “an aberration,” the PENGASSAN leader cautioned that failure to recall it could have severe implications for workers in the sector.

“If this order is not withdrawn, our members risk being declared redundant, as NNPC may be unable to meet its obligations,” he warned.

The union called on the Presidency to review the directive and align any fiscal reforms with the framework established under the Petroleum Industry Act to preserve stability and investor confidence in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

Fubara Mourns Senator Barinada Mpigi, Describes Death As Great Loss To Rivers

0

Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Senator Barinada Mpigi, who represented Rivers South-East Senatorial District in the National Assembly.

Mpigi, 64, was until his death the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works in the 10th National Assembly.

His passing has thrown political stakeholders in Rivers State and beyond into mourning, given his long-standing influence in the state’s political landscape.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Onwuka Nzeshi, Governor Fubara described the late lawmaker as a “brother, consummate politician and one of the leading lights in Rivers State politics.”

The governor said Mpigi’s death came at a critical time when his experience and services were still needed by the people of the state, particularly at the federal level where he played a key role in legislative oversight on infrastructure development.

Fubara prayed for the repose of the senator’s soul and urged his family and associates to find comfort in what he described as a life of impact and service.

He commiserated with the immediate family of the deceased, the people of Rivers South-East Senatorial District and members of the Senate, noting that Mpigi left behind a legacy of dedication to public service and commitment to the development of Rivers State.

A seasoned politician, Mpigi was regarded as a prominent figure in Rivers politics, contributing significantly to legislative debates and constituency development initiatives.

His role as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works placed him at the centre of oversight responsibilities on federal road projects and other critical infrastructure across the country.

Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family.

Reward System: A Panacea To Boosting Morale Of Police Personnel

It is important we first commend the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his policies that are geared towards eradicating terrorism and banditry in the country. In recent times, his policy on national security which resulted in strategic partnership with United States of America and other countries, has paid off.

In the same vein, we commend the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, for implementing the security policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu which has culminated into effective, proactive and result-oriented policing.

Also worthy of note is the effective oversight function of the Police Service Commission (PSC) led by DIG Hashimu Argungu (Rtd) in terms of adequate monitoring and supervision of personnel.

The Nigeria Police Force has been plagued by negative perceptions in recent years, with some officers engaging in unprofessional conducts. The Police high command and the Police Service Commission (PSC), in line with rules and regulations governing the Force, have being prompt in punishing erring officers. We have seen some officers dismissed from the service for gross misconduct while some others were punished depending on the gravity of their offense.

While we commend the Police authority for their proactiveness in restoring discipline to the Force, they should also imbibe the culture of rewarding distinguished and outstanding Police officers.

Very Senior Officers like the Assistant Inspector General of Police, AIG Auwal Musa Mohammed, in charge of Zone 6 Calabar, who ensured personnel and men in his zone comply and adhere fully to security tactics and instructions of IGP Egbekotun that translated to massive achievement over the weekend should be encouraged.

Meanwhile, the likes of Deputy Commissioner of Police, Zonal CID 6 Calabar, DCP Udu Moses Ogechi, PhD, who are working tirelessly to restore reputation to the Police Force should be rewarded to boost their morale, and inspire other officers to put in their best.

DCP Ogechi is currently the Head of the Zonal Criminal Investigation Department (ZCID) in Zone 6, Calabar. He recently led a successful operation on Valentines Day (14th February) to dismantle a kidnapping and job-scam syndicate, rescuing over 100 victims. The syndicate had been exploiting Nigerians, particularly youths who are eager to relocate abroad, promising them fake job opportunities and visa.

What is remarkable about DCP Ogechi’s achievement is not just the rescue of the victims, but also his refusal to be swayed by corruption. The syndicate attempted to bribe him with ₦50 million, but he and his team rejected the offer, stood firm and demonstrated their commitment to professionalism and the rule of law. This is commendable and deserving of recognition.

DCP Ogechi’s patriotic action and his uncompromising stance especially at a time when the Police Force is working to regain public trust, deserves accolades and recognition by the police authorities. His bravery and integrity in the face of corruption are a shining example to other officers.

DCP Ogechi’s sterling personality did not come as a surprise to us given his track record of excellent performance everywhere he goes. While serving in Rivers State as ACP Operations, he successfully flushed out cultists from the State. He led the team that apprehended notorious cultists led by Nwondi Onuigwe who were responsible for killing Police Officers, kidnapping and robbery of passengers along Emohua East West road. Recall that the Rivers State Government had placed millions of Naira bounty on Wordi.

It is on record that crime was reduced to its barest minimum during Ogechi’s reign as ACP Operations in Rivers State. His efforts earned him an award for excellent professionalism from the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Rivers State Council.

As Nigeria strives to strengthen its institutions and combat corruption, it is essential to acknowledge serving officers who have distinguished themselves.

The reward system is a crucial aspect of motivating officers to perform their duties creditably. Rewarding deserving officers like DCP Ogechi will surely inspire other fine officers who are working tirelessly to rid our society of crimes and criminality.

 

By Ike Wigodo

Wigodo is a journalist and social commentator based in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Stand On The Side Of Truth, Fubara Tells Judiciary As Daniel-Kalio Retires

0

Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has charged members of the Nigerian judiciary and political class to prioritise justice, integrity and enduring legacy above personal interests, declaring that the true measure of leadership lies in how public service ends.

Fubara gave the charge on Wednesday night at a state banquet held at the Government House, Port Harcourt in honour of Obietonbara Owupele Daniel-Kalio, who recently retired as Presiding Justice of the Court of Appeal, Asaba Division.

Addressing jurists, government officials, traditional rulers and other dignitaries, the governor stressed the imperative of upholding high standards in public service, noting that excellence could be restored through collective resolve and a firm commitment to ethical conduct.

“It is about us coming together, believing in setting a standard and not allowing our personal interests to override those standards. That is the only way we can restore the good old days,” he said.

Fubara described the retired jurist as a model of integrity and professionalism, urging younger lawyers and politicians to uphold the primacy of truth in their careers and personal lives.

“The message tonight is about how a career ends. The conclusion of Justice Daniel-Kalio’s service brings honour to the state.

It is a lesson for the upcoming young ones, and those of us in politics. When we leave the stage, how will our story be told? It is not about winning now; it is about how it ends.

“We must strive to do the right things to defend the most important value, which is justice. Always stand on the side of truth so that at the end you will be remembered for what is right,” he added.

The governor noted that although Daniel-Kalio had formally retired from the Bench, he remained intellectually vibrant and capable of contributing to the development of the state. He assured that the government would continue to draw on his wealth of experience and urged him to remain available whenever called upon to serve.

Fubara also expressed appreciation to guests for their presence at what he described as a significant moment for his administration, acknowledging their support during critical periods.

“Our vision is to ensure that Rivers State continues to grow from strength to strength. It has not been easy, but we are humbled by your support. We cannot repay you, but God will reward you,” he said.

In her welcome address, the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary of the state Ministry of Justice, Vera Sam-Dike, described the event as a celebration of an illustrious son of the state and a jurist of exceptional integrity, who served with loyalty, fairness and unwavering commitment to the rule of law.

She characterised Daniel-Kalio’s retirement as the end of an era and a celebration of a distinguished career that advanced justice and impacted countless lives.

Responding, Justice Daniel-Kalio expressed gratitude to the governor for what he termed a rare show of honour and candour in organising a state reception in his honour.

He described his years on the Bench as deeply fulfilling and reaffirmed the judiciary’s role as a stabilising force in any progressive society.

Tinubu Signs Electoral Act 2026 Amendment, Rekindles Debate Over Electronic Transmission of Results

0

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday assented to the Electoral Act 2026 (Amendment) Bill, a move that has reignited debate over the electronic transmission of election results, barely days after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) unveiled the timetable for the 2027 general elections.

The signing ceremony took place at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, at about 5:00 p.m., with Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, in attendance.

The development followed Tuesday’s harmonisation of the amendment by the Senate and the House of Representatives, despite stiff resistance from minority lawmakers who raised concerns over key provisions of the bill.

At the heart of the renewed controversy is the issue of electronic transmission of results.

Civil society organisations and opposition figures have consistently advocated real-time transmission of results from polling units directly to INEC’s central server, arguing that such a measure would minimise manipulation, enhance transparency and bolster public confidence in the electoral process.

The debate intensified last week when protesters stormed the National Assembly complex, demanding live transmission of results.

The demonstrators cited the 2023 general elections, during which INEC’s Results Viewing Portal reportedly malfunctioned, sparking widespread allegations of irregularities and eroding public trust.

While the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed support for greater deployment of technology in elections, some stakeholders have urged caution, noting that poor telecommunications infrastructure in parts of the country could undermine seamless electronic transmission.

They have canvassed a phased or hybrid approach that would permit manual collation where electronic systems fail.

INEC has fixed February 20, 2027, for the Presidential and National Assembly elections, while Governorship and State Houses of Assembly polls are scheduled for March 6, 2027, setting the stage for what is expected to be another closely watched electoral cycle.

UNIPORT Celebrates Odusote’s Historic Emergence As First Female DG Of Nigerian Law School

0

The University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) has expressed immense pride and delight following the appointment of
Dr. Olugbemisola Titilayo
Odusote as the Director-General of the Nigerian Law School, describing her elevation as both historic and richly deserved.

In a congratulatory message issued on behalf of the university’s management, staff, students and stakeholders, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Owunari Abraham Georgewill, hailed the appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as a milestone not only for the legal profession but for women in leadership across the country.

According to the university, Dr. Odusote’s emergence as the first female Director-General of the Nigerian Law School in over six decades of its existence underscores the significance of her achievement and the confidence reposed in her capacity to lead.

The institution noted that her appointment marks a defining moment in the annals of legal education in Nigeria.

UNIPORT particularly commended her exemplary service as former Deputy Director-General and Head of the Lagos Campus of the Nigerian Law School, where she was credited with providing visionary leadership, strengthening institutional frameworks, and contributing significantly to the strategic direction of the School.

The university maintained that her distinguished record of administrative competence, professionalism and commitment to excellence undoubtedly positioned her as the preferred choice for the top role.

Describing her appointment as a source of pride and inspiration, UNIPORT said her new role reflects the growing recognition of merit, hard work and integrity in national assignments.

The university expressed confidence that her tenure would usher in renewed growth, innovation and consolidation in legal education in Nigeria.

“As a university community, we are immensely proud of her accomplishments and confident that she will justify the trust placed in her,” the statement read.

UNIPORT concluded by wishing Dr. Odusote a highly successful tenure, assuring her of its affectionate regards and unwavering support as she assumes leadership of the nation’s foremost legal training institution.