Saturday 30 December 2017
Non-indigenes Council in Bayelsa honours 2 former leaders, applauds state government
The Supreme Council of Non-indegenes in Bayelsa has bestowed its merit award on two former President-Generals of the organisations as part of its end of year activities and festivities for the outgoing 2017.
The group, a coalition of non indegenes community associations from other states of the federation held the occasion with award of certificates of merit and presentation of plaques to the leaders at Ididi hotel, Ekeki in Yenagoa.
Mr Douglas Koko, pioneer leader of the group and Mr Adeshina Sanusi were the award recipients.
Speaking at the award ceremony, Chief Ade Bakare, President-General of the Council, noted that the two former leaders were selected due to their outstanding efforts in building the organisation to earn the respect and recognition by their hosts.
Police visit scene of armed atttack on Oronto Douglas’s residence two days after several distress calls
The Bayelsa Police Command has visited the scene of crime following armed attack by unidentified gunmen on Oronto Douglas' residence and Okoroba in Nembe LGA of Bayelsa on December 26, 2017, two clear days after the crime.
There had been claims by some persons in the community that the police did not respond to distress calls during the attack on some residences including that of the late Oronto Douglas, a former Commissioner for Information in the state.
The Command had lied and feigned ignorance of the crime when contacted for update on the siruation and later recanted, visited the crime scene albeit belatedly as evidence of reports to Assistant Commisioner of Police in charge of operations and Nembe Police Division became public.
There had been claims by some persons in the community that the police did not respond to distress calls during the attack on some residences including that of the late Oronto Douglas, a former Commissioner for Information in the state.
The Command had lied and feigned ignorance of the crime when contacted for update on the siruation and later recanted, visited the crime scene albeit belatedly as evidence of reports to Assistant Commisioner of Police in charge of operations and Nembe Police Division became public.
Friday 22 December 2017
Abductor of Paramount ruler’s wife, Principal in Bayelsa demand N100 m ransom
The abductors of Mrs Tina Inegbagha, wife of Paramount ruler in Ayakoro Community in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa, have demanded a ransom of N100 million to free their captive.
It would be recalled that yet to be identified gunmen had on December 16, 2017 invaded the coastal settlement abducting the monarch’s wife and Mr Egele Jack, the Principal of Government Craft Development Centre, Ayakoro. .
Mr Majesty Inegbagha, a member of the monarch’s family said in Yenagoa on Friday that the abductors have contacted the family with the demand.
"The paramaount ruler, who is my elder brother confirmed to me this morning that the kidnappers have called him and demanded for the sum of N100 million and it was a relief to the tension that has buit up since all these days.
"Although the family is pleased to know that the woman is alive, the thought of raising that sum of money has created additional challenge to the family and we appeal to them to free her on humanitarian grounds as wemlack the means to pay," Inegbagha said.
He expressed optimism that the abducted paramount ruler’s wife and the school principal would regain their freedom following fervent prayers by family members and well meaning members of the public as well as efforts of the security agencies.
The Police Commissioner in the state, Mr Asuquo Amba, had in a response to a question on the incident during an interactive session with newsmen on the crime situation on Monday said that the incident was being investigated.
Amba said that following the recent upsurge in violent crimes in Bayelsa, the Inspector General of Police (I-G), Ibrahim Idris, had sent a special squad to compliment the efforts of the Police Command in combating crime.
Tax evasion: Firm reopens sealed dredging site in Bayelsa
The abductors of Mrs Tina Inegbagha, wife of Paramount ruler in Ayakoro Community in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa, have demanded a ransom of N100 million to free their captive.
It would be recalled that yet to be identified gunmen had on December 16, 2017 invaded the coastal settlement abducting the monarch’s wife and Mr Egele Jack, the Principal of Government Craft Development Centre, Ayakoro. .
Mr Majesty Inegbagha, a member of the monarch’s family said in Yenagoa on Friday that the abductors have contacted the family with the demand.
It would be recalled that yet to be identified gunmen had on December 16, 2017 invaded the coastal settlement abducting the monarch’s wife and Mr Egele Jack, the Principal of Government Craft Development Centre, Ayakoro. .
Mr Majesty Inegbagha, a member of the monarch’s family said in Yenagoa on Friday that the abductors have contacted the family with the demand.
Thursday 21 December 2017
Azikel, a sand dredging firm in Bayelsa denies allegation of tax evasion, heads to court
The Azikel Group, an indigenous sand dredging firm, has denied allegation against it by Bayelsa State Government that it owed the state N30 million due to non-remittance of taxes.
Dr Azibapu Eruani, the President of Azikel Group, on Thursday in Yenagoa said that the allegation was false and had no substance of truth in it.
Eruani, according to political observers an ally of former President Jonathan has been penciled down for persecution by Dickson's camp to reduce his chances of being fielded in the 2019 governorship poll , the choice of Dickson's successor has pitched the governor agajnst his political godfather.
Dr Azibapu Eruani, the President of Azikel Group, on Thursday in Yenagoa said that the allegation was false and had no substance of truth in it.
Eruani, according to political observers an ally of former President Jonathan has been penciled down for persecution by Dickson's camp to reduce his chances of being fielded in the 2019 governorship poll , the choice of Dickson's successor has pitched the governor agajnst his political godfather.
Monday 18 December 2017
Ongoing public service reforms in Bayelsa to check payroll fraud- Commissioner
The Baylesa government on Monday said the ongoing public service reforms in the state was to completely eliminate endemic employment racketeering and pay roll fraud in its public sector.
The state Commissioner for Local Government Administration, Dr Agatha Goma, said this when he paid an unscheduled visits to venues for staff identification and assessment of local government workers, including primary teachers and non-teaching staff.
While expressing satisfaction over the pace of the exercise, Goma noted that the scheme was aimed at eliminating endemic employment racketeering and pay roll fraud among other vises in the public sector.
The state Commissioner for Local Government Administration, Dr Agatha Goma, said this when he paid an unscheduled visits to venues for staff identification and assessment of local government workers, including primary teachers and non-teaching staff.
While expressing satisfaction over the pace of the exercise, Goma noted that the scheme was aimed at eliminating endemic employment racketeering and pay roll fraud among other vises in the public sector.
Friday 15 December 2017
Bayelsla Internal Revenue board seals Federal Polutechnic Ekeowe liason , Dredging firm over
The Bayelsa Board of Internal Revenue (BIR), on Friday sealed off the Yenagoa liason office of Federal Polytechnic, Ekeowe and the operations of a Sand Dredging firm, Azikel Group in efforts to shore up the revenue profile of the state.
The two establishments were shut down over alleged non-remittance Pay As You Earn (PAYE) tax deducted from their employees for several years.
The BIR enforcement team led by its Head of Enforcement, Mr Reuben Lugard served a court order on the staff of the two organisations before they ordered them to leave their offices.
The two establishments were shut down over alleged non-remittance Pay As You Earn (PAYE) tax deducted from their employees for several years.
The BIR enforcement team led by its Head of Enforcement, Mr Reuben Lugard served a court order on the staff of the two organisations before they ordered them to leave their offices.
Tuesday 12 December 2017
Bayelsa Assembly moves to outlaw open grazing
Bayelsa House of Assembly on Tuesday held a Public Hearing on a bill seeking to prohibit open grazing of cattle in the state.
Shooting of Bayelsa female journalist: NUJ urges Govt., Police to check proliferation of arms
The Bayelsa State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) on Tuesday urged the Bayelsa government and Police to check the proliferation of arms and resultant upsurge in crime rate.
Mr John Angese, Chairman of Bayelsa Council of NUJ regretted that the culprits in the murder of a Journalist in April 2017 were yet to be apprehended when another journalist fell victim in another incident.
Bayelsa Council of NUJ made the call in reaction to Saturday's shooting of Miss Patience Owei a female journalist with the African Independent Television (AIT) by unknown gunmen.
Mr John Angese, Chairman of Bayelsa Council of NUJ regretted that the culprits in the murder of a Journalist in April 2017 were yet to be apprehended when another journalist fell victim in another incident.
Bayelsa Council of NUJ made the call in reaction to Saturday's shooting of Miss Patience Owei a female journalist with the African Independent Television (AIT) by unknown gunmen.
Sunday 10 December 2017
Gunmen shoot female journalist in Yenagoa
Barely on week after gunmen assasinate a leader of cattle dealers in Bayelsa, Unknown gunmen have shot a reporter with the African Independent Television (AIT), Miss Owe Patience, in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
The victim was reportedly shot at close range along Edepie area by her assailants, who dispossessed her of her mobile phones, cash and other valuables.
Owei, who covers the state Government House, was attacked at about 10.30pm on Saturday while returning home from a church service organised by the Living Faith church also known as Winners Chapel, Shilloh 2017.
It was learnt that the suspected armed robbers shot her in the back after collecting her phones and handbag, leaving her in the pool of her blood.
The victim was reportedly shot at close range along Edepie area by her assailants, who dispossessed her of her mobile phones, cash and other valuables.
Owei, who covers the state Government House, was attacked at about 10.30pm on Saturday while returning home from a church service organised by the Living Faith church also known as Winners Chapel, Shilloh 2017.
It was learnt that the suspected armed robbers shot her in the back after collecting her phones and handbag, leaving her in the pool of her blood.
Don decries wide knowledge gap among Nigerians in oil & gas industry
A university lecturer, Prof. Benjamin Nduku has lamented the wide knowledge gap amongst and shortage of high level capacities among Nigerians in the oil and gas sector making expatriates to dominate the sector.
Nduku, a Director at the Institute of Natural Resources, Environment and Sustainable Development (INRES), University of Port Harcourt regretted that the situation had remained despite efforts by government to improve the participation of Nigerians in the sector.
The don made the observation on Sunday in Yenagoa at the award presentation for the first Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) Annual Oil and Gas Undergraduate Essay Competition in the Niger Delta.
The lecturer who was a guest of honour at the occasion noted that while the age average of key players in the global economy is dropping, the reverse is the case in Nigeria.
Nduku, a Director at the Institute of Natural Resources, Environment and Sustainable Development (INRES), University of Port Harcourt regretted that the situation had remained despite efforts by government to improve the participation of Nigerians in the sector.
The don made the observation on Sunday in Yenagoa at the award presentation for the first Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) Annual Oil and Gas Undergraduate Essay Competition in the Niger Delta.
The lecturer who was a guest of honour at the occasion noted that while the age average of key players in the global economy is dropping, the reverse is the case in Nigeria.
Monday 4 December 2017
Indegenous firm concludes study on Ocean Terminal at Ibeno, A/Ibom
Port Notel, an indegenous port development firm on Monday said its proposed ocean terminal project in the Atlantic Ocean off, Ibeno coastline is technically and economically feasible.
Mr Victor Akpanika, Managing Director, Port Notel Ltd (PNL) told newsmen in Yenagoa that the firm had succesfully concluded a report it commisioned in 2014.
He explained that following the submission of the reports, the process of field development would take off as soon as all regulatory compliance formalities and approvals are got from relevant government agencies.
Sunday 3 December 2017
NDDC MD wants politicians to allow NDDC mangement focus on development of Niger Delta
Chief Nsima Ekere, Managing Director, Niger Delta Development Commision (NDDC) says political interferance by interest groups in the region is a distraction and obstacle to speedy development of the region.
Ekere who spoke in Nembe on Sunday, shortly after inspecting ongoing projects in Bayelsa noted that the region was in dire need of development, and that any distraction was undesirable.
He therefore appealed to politicians to refrain from distracting the board and management of the Commision to achieve its mandate.
Ekere who spoke in Nembe on Sunday, shortly after inspecting ongoing projects in Bayelsa noted that the region was in dire need of development, and that any distraction was undesirable.
He therefore appealed to politicians to refrain from distracting the board and management of the Commision to achieve its mandate.
Bayelsa Police Commisioner bemoans poor state of police detention facilities
The Bayelsa Police Command at the weekend bemoaned the dearth of proper detention facilities to hold suspects apprehended in its efforts at combating crime.
Mr Asuquo Amba, Bayelsa Police Commissioner said in an interview that the police was making do with overcrowded makeshift cells adding that he had even deployed his personal resources to provide an armoury for the command.
Amba explained that the pace of prosecuting suspects in the state was too slow and hence compelles the limited police detention facilities for holding suspected criminals to be overstretched.
Mr Asuquo Amba, Bayelsa Police Commissioner said in an interview that the police was making do with overcrowded makeshift cells adding that he had even deployed his personal resources to provide an armoury for the command.
Amba explained that the pace of prosecuting suspects in the state was too slow and hence compelles the limited police detention facilities for holding suspected criminals to be overstretched.
Gunmen kill Fulani cattle dealers leader three others in Bayelsa
Unidentified gunmen on Saturday shot and killed a prominent cattle dealer in Bayelsa popularly known as Alhaji Jubril Abdukareem along with three of his workers.
The slain cattle dealer is also the leader of the cattle dealers union known as Myetti Allah in the cattle market in Bayelsa Palm area of Yenagoa , Bayelsa capital.
The slain cattle dealer is also the leader of the cattle dealers union known as Myetti Allah in the cattle market in Bayelsa Palm area of Yenagoa , Bayelsa capital.
Friday 1 December 2017
Military elevates 4 officers at the Joint Task Force HQ Yenagoa
Military elevates 4 officers at the Joint Task Force HQ Yenagoa
The Commander of Joint Task Force (JTF) deployed to the Niger Delta Operation Delta Safe, Rear Admiral Suleiman Apochi on Friday decorated four newly promoted officers under his command with their new ranks.
At the ceremony which took place at the headquarters of JTF in Yenagoa, three officers, namely, Thomas Otuji, Roy Nweke and Obiora Anyikwe were decorated with the rank of Commander, from the rank of Lt Commander.
Otuji, is Deputy Spokesman at the Joint Media Campaign Cordinating unit of the Operation Delta Safe.
Also the Commander of Sector 4 of JTF Col. M.U. Muktar was decorated with the rank of Brigadier General.
Addressing the officers Apochi congratulated them for their elevation, pointing out that their new positions call for greater service to the father land.
He urged them to do all within their powers to attain at least a position higher than a Brigadier General in the service so that they could go home in retirement happy and fulfilled.
The Commander, however, charged them not to rely on their connection among the higher ranks for promotion and other favors, but work hard to earn all promotions and placements.
He used the occasion to admonish those who could not make it to be among the decorated officers to continue to work hard and pray to be listed in the next batch.
Responding on behalf of the decorated officers, Muktar, thanked the military high command for recognizing and rewarding them with the new ranks.
He pledged that the new ranks will spur them to work harder in their areas of responsibilities.
The ceremony attracted spouses and relatives of the decorated officers.
The Commander of Joint Task Force (JTF) deployed to the Niger Delta Operation Delta Safe, Rear Admiral Suleiman Apochi on Friday decorated four newly promoted officers under his command with their new ranks.
At the ceremony which took place at the headquarters of JTF in Yenagoa, three officers, namely, Thomas Otuji, Roy Nweke and Obiora Anyikwe were decorated with the rank of Commander, from the rank of Lt Commander.
Otuji, is Deputy Spokesman at the Joint Media Campaign Cordinating unit of the Operation Delta Safe.
Also the Commander of Sector 4 of JTF Col. M.U. Muktar was decorated with the rank of Brigadier General.
Addressing the officers Apochi congratulated them for their elevation, pointing out that their new positions call for greater service to the father land.
He urged them to do all within their powers to attain at least a position higher than a Brigadier General in the service so that they could go home in retirement happy and fulfilled.
The Commander, however, charged them not to rely on their connection among the higher ranks for promotion and other favors, but work hard to earn all promotions and placements.
He used the occasion to admonish those who could not make it to be among the decorated officers to continue to work hard and pray to be listed in the next batch.
Responding on behalf of the decorated officers, Muktar, thanked the military high command for recognizing and rewarding them with the new ranks.
He pledged that the new ranks will spur them to work harder in their areas of responsibilities.
The ceremony attracted spouses and relatives of the decorated officers.
Thursday 30 November 2017
Bayelsa owes 5 months salary arrears in 2016 not 16 months -Commisioner
The Bayelsa government on Thursday described the impression that it was owing workers between 10 and 16 months salary backlog as inacurate and insisted that outstanding obligation to its workfore was four and half months.
The state government clarified the status of indebtedness to labour in statement issued by Mr Daniel Iworiso-Markson, Bayelsa Commissioner for Information.
According to the statement, the arrears of four and half months accumulated in 2016 due to a sharp drop in the revenue profile of the state adding that following improvements in reciepts from the federation account the state has no outstanding salary in 2017 fiscal year.
The state government clarified the status of indebtedness to labour in statement issued by Mr Daniel Iworiso-Markson, Bayelsa Commissioner for Information.
According to the statement, the arrears of four and half months accumulated in 2016 due to a sharp drop in the revenue profile of the state adding that following improvements in reciepts from the federation account the state has no outstanding salary in 2017 fiscal year.
Wednesday 29 November 2017
Fiscal Responsibility Commission seeks speedy completion of Federal Secretariate in Yenagoa
Fiscal Responsibility Commission seeks speedy completion of Federal Secretariate in Yenagoa
The Fiscal Responsibility Commision (FRC) on Wednesday expressed concerns over delays in completion of Federal Secretariate Complex in Yenagoa, Bayelsa capital.
Mr Ibrahim Dauda, Director, Internal Audit at FRC said in Yenagoa that a speedy completion of the project will boost government's policy on ease of doing business.
Dauda who is leading a FRC projecr minitoring team in the South South zone said that it was regrettable that the project which was expected to be completed in 2014 is still under construction.
It would be recalled that the contract for the project was awarded in 2012 at a sum of N2.1 bn with expected completion in 2014.
"We are seriously concerned at the delays especially for a young state like Bayelsa where federal government agencies are facing serious accomodation challenges and occupying rented accomodations.
"If this facility is completed, it will be a one stop shop for all federal government agencies and it will boost the government's policy of enhancing the ease of doing business by keeping relevant offices under one roof.
"It will further be a huge savings on the part of government on the collosal sums paid by various agencies of the federal government on rent.
"We urge the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs to make the project a priority and ensure that it is completed without further delays, " Dauda said.
Dauda however commended the contractor for the pace of work so far achieved despite the funding challenges.
According to him, the project status was above 70 percent of the work done while the funding commitments stood at about 52 per cent.
Briefing the FRC team, Mr Nwachukwu Achebe, Federal Controller of Works in Bayelsa attributed the delays to the difficult marshy terrain at the project site which required massive sand filling and extensive pilling to solidify the base before proper construction work could begin.
He noted that the additional challenge posed by the low lying landscape necesitated an upward review of the contract sum from N2.1 bn to N3.1 bn.
Achebe, who put the job completion rate at 72 percent said that the contractor handling the project has been performing optimally and noted that the project has recieved improved funding in 2017 haven recieved two tranches of payments within the year.
The Fiscal Responsibility Commision (FRC) on Wednesday expressed concerns over delays in completion of Federal Secretariate Complex in Yenagoa, Bayelsa capital.
Mr Ibrahim Dauda, Director, Internal Audit at FRC said in Yenagoa that a speedy completion of the project will boost government's policy on ease of doing business.
Dauda who is leading a FRC projecr minitoring team in the South South zone said that it was regrettable that the project which was expected to be completed in 2014 is still under construction.
It would be recalled that the contract for the project was awarded in 2012 at a sum of N2.1 bn with expected completion in 2014.
"We are seriously concerned at the delays especially for a young state like Bayelsa where federal government agencies are facing serious accomodation challenges and occupying rented accomodations.
"If this facility is completed, it will be a one stop shop for all federal government agencies and it will boost the government's policy of enhancing the ease of doing business by keeping relevant offices under one roof.
"It will further be a huge savings on the part of government on the collosal sums paid by various agencies of the federal government on rent.
"We urge the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs to make the project a priority and ensure that it is completed without further delays, " Dauda said.
Dauda however commended the contractor for the pace of work so far achieved despite the funding challenges.
According to him, the project status was above 70 percent of the work done while the funding commitments stood at about 52 per cent.
Briefing the FRC team, Mr Nwachukwu Achebe, Federal Controller of Works in Bayelsa attributed the delays to the difficult marshy terrain at the project site which required massive sand filling and extensive pilling to solidify the base before proper construction work could begin.
He noted that the additional challenge posed by the low lying landscape necesitated an upward review of the contract sum from N2.1 bn to N3.1 bn.
Achebe, who put the job completion rate at 72 percent said that the contractor handling the project has been performing optimally and noted that the project has recieved improved funding in 2017 haven recieved two tranches of payments within the year.
Bayelsa oil community shuts down 2 oil wells in Shell's field over power supply
The residents at Tanbiri II , Biseni in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa on Wednesday disrupted oil production at Adibawa Oil field operated by Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), shutting two oil wells.
It was gathered that two oil wells , Adibawa well 4 and Adibawa well 10 feeding the Adibawa flow station were shut down by the protesters who demanded for power supply from the nearby oil facility.
A visit to community showed that hundreds of residents comprising youths, women and elders had blocked the access road to the shut oil wells singing solidarity songs amidst rythms from local musical instruments.
It was gathered that two oil wells , Adibawa well 4 and Adibawa well 10 feeding the Adibawa flow station were shut down by the protesters who demanded for power supply from the nearby oil facility.
A visit to community showed that hundreds of residents comprising youths, women and elders had blocked the access road to the shut oil wells singing solidarity songs amidst rythms from local musical instruments.
Tuesday 28 November 2017
Stakeholders applaud moves to host inuagural Oloibiri oil and gas festival in Bayelsa
Some stakeholders in Bayelsa have applauded the move for the maiden edition of the Nigeria first oil well festival from Dec. 28 to Jan. 14, 2018.
According to the stakeholders, the festival would be a significant event to reawaken the people to the abandoned potential in the land.
It will be recalled Shell struck oil in commercial quantities at first oil and gas field in Nigeria in 1956 and subsequently commenced production and export in 1958 at Oloibiri oil well 1in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa.
The development launched Nigeria into the league of oil exporting nations and paved its way for membership of Organisatiin of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).
Some of the stakeholders, who spoke in Yenagoa on Tuesday after a meeting to harness issues ahead of the festival, said the initiative for the festivity was a welcome development.
According to the stakeholders, the festival would be a significant event to reawaken the people to the abandoned potential in the land.
It will be recalled Shell struck oil in commercial quantities at first oil and gas field in Nigeria in 1956 and subsequently commenced production and export in 1958 at Oloibiri oil well 1in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa.
The development launched Nigeria into the league of oil exporting nations and paved its way for membership of Organisatiin of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).
Some of the stakeholders, who spoke in Yenagoa on Tuesday after a meeting to harness issues ahead of the festival, said the initiative for the festivity was a welcome development.
Monday 27 November 2017
NANS leader IN Bayelsa, 7 others in police net for cultism, murder, armed robbery
NANS leader IN Bayelsa, 7 others in police net for cultism, murder, armed robbery
The Bayelsa Police Command has arrested the Bayelsa chapter chairman of National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and seven other university students in connection with the alleged killing of a student, cultism and armed robbery.
The NANS leader in Bayelsa, Mr Perewari Benjamin, a 400-level student of the Niger Delta University, Amassoma, was on Monday paraded at the state command's headquarters in Yenagoa with seven other undergraduates.
The police authorities gave the names of the other seven suspects as MrAsari Enagob, 400-level student; Mr Suoguai Bina, 500 level student, Mr Ibe Ogbonna, 300 level, Mr Igbanibo Tari, 400 level, Mr Ekperi Kenneth, 400 level Mr Kemefie Ebimene, 200 level.
The Bayelsa Police Command has arrested the Bayelsa chapter chairman of National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and seven other university students in connection with the alleged killing of a student, cultism and armed robbery.
The NANS leader in Bayelsa, Mr Perewari Benjamin, a 400-level student of the Niger Delta University, Amassoma, was on Monday paraded at the state command's headquarters in Yenagoa with seven other undergraduates.
The police authorities gave the names of the other seven suspects as MrAsari Enagob, 400-level student; Mr Suoguai Bina, 500 level student, Mr Ibe Ogbonna, 300 level, Mr Igbanibo Tari, 400 level, Mr Ekperi Kenneth, 400 level Mr Kemefie Ebimene, 200 level.
Wednesday 22 November 2017
Welfare of Civil Servants, a right not a privilege -FG
The Federal Government on Wednesday said that the current administration sees the provision of a conducive work environment to its workforce and prompt payment of salaries as a right and not a privilege.
Mrs Didi Walson-Jack, Permanent Secretary at the Service Welfare Office at Office of Head of Civil Service of the Federation said the federal government has reviewed its industrial relations policy to engender harmony and enhanced productivity by civil servants.
Walson-Jack told newsmen on the sidelines of the ongoing Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council in Yenagoa that the federal government has adopted a new approach to improve welfare of civil servants.
She said that under the new approach, the government sees the welfare of its workforce as a priority by ensuring regular consultation with labour leaders to reduce friction at the work place, and making strikes unecesary.
"It is the belief of the federal government that Nigerian workers have a right to a safe and conducive working environment as well as enhanced welfare package, inluding regular payment of salaries, it is a right and not a privilege.
"However, labour leaders must show understanding in view of the economic challenges before us, our new approach is to see government and labour as part of the team working for the delivery of service to Nigerians, it is no longer we against them.
"We are all part of the team playing together in the same team and we shall win together and we should encourage civil servants to change their attitude to work and justify their salaries," Walson-Jack said.
President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Ayuba Wabba had in his remarks to delegates to the three day event observed that workers were fundamental partners in the wealth creation process and deserved to be renumerated adequate as partners in progress.
He however expressed regrets that the negotiations for a new national minimum wage was yet to commence even as the economic funamentals were changing.
Wabba said at the ongoing Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council in Yenagoa that the prevailing economic scenario including the devaluation of the naira.
"It is a matter of concern that up till now, the negotiations for a new minimum wage is yet to start, as at the time the last time the last one was signed, the exchange rate of naira to the dollar was about N110 but todady it is around N360.
"It is our desire that negotiations should commence in earnest as the economic scenario has been very harsh for the Nigerian workers, we urge the government to fast track the process," Wabba said.
Mrs Didi Walson-Jack, Permanent Secretary at the Service Welfare Office at Office of Head of Civil Service of the Federation said the federal government has reviewed its industrial relations policy to engender harmony and enhanced productivity by civil servants.
Walson-Jack told newsmen on the sidelines of the ongoing Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council in Yenagoa that the federal government has adopted a new approach to improve welfare of civil servants.
She said that under the new approach, the government sees the welfare of its workforce as a priority by ensuring regular consultation with labour leaders to reduce friction at the work place, and making strikes unecesary.
"It is the belief of the federal government that Nigerian workers have a right to a safe and conducive working environment as well as enhanced welfare package, inluding regular payment of salaries, it is a right and not a privilege.
"However, labour leaders must show understanding in view of the economic challenges before us, our new approach is to see government and labour as part of the team working for the delivery of service to Nigerians, it is no longer we against them.
"We are all part of the team playing together in the same team and we shall win together and we should encourage civil servants to change their attitude to work and justify their salaries," Walson-Jack said.
President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Ayuba Wabba had in his remarks to delegates to the three day event observed that workers were fundamental partners in the wealth creation process and deserved to be renumerated adequate as partners in progress.
He however expressed regrets that the negotiations for a new national minimum wage was yet to commence even as the economic funamentals were changing.
Wabba said at the ongoing Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council in Yenagoa that the prevailing economic scenario including the devaluation of the naira.
"It is a matter of concern that up till now, the negotiations for a new minimum wage is yet to start, as at the time the last time the last one was signed, the exchange rate of naira to the dollar was about N110 but todady it is around N360.
"It is our desire that negotiations should commence in earnest as the economic scenario has been very harsh for the Nigerian workers, we urge the government to fast track the process," Wabba said.
Monday 20 November 2017
Olobia community in Bayelsa protests exclusion as Chevron's host community
Hundreds of youths, women and elders who carried placards and sang soliderity songs baricaded the entrance of KRDFsecretariate in Opolo area of Yenagoa.
KRDF is funded by Chevron Nigeria Ltd to impliment existing Memorandum of Understanding and development projects in the oil firm's host communities in Bayelsa.
Some inscriptions on the placads read : "Olobia community must not only benefit from negative effects of Chevron's operations", "The peace-loving people say no to exclusion, enough is enough" , "Olobia community is an autonomous community," amongst others.
Chief Kingsley Gongo, Deputy Paramount Ruler of Olobia who led the protest said that the community embarked on the peaceful protest to draw the attention of the foundation, government and management of Chevron to the exclusion of the community from development.
Gongo said that it was regreettable that efforts to table the matter have been rebuffed asmseveral letters written to relevant authourities have yielded no results.
He said that the community had attained an autonomous community status and rcognised as such by Bayelsa government for over five years.
The monarch regretted that Chevron and the foundation was yet to recognise the community as one of its hosts, excluding them from development projects.
Addressing the protesters, Mr Faowei Biboete, Head of Administration at KRDF Secretariate pledged to convey the grieviances to the Chairman of the foundation's board of trustees.
Biboete said that it was the responsibility of the board to set criteria for including communities to benefit from Chevron's corporate social responsibility projects.
He applauded the people for their peaceful conduct and expressed optimism that the issue would be amicable resolved through dialogue between the foundation and the community leadership.
Mr Alagoa Morris, a community rights activist appealed to Chevron and KRDF to resolve the conflict through dialogue given the peaceful approach of the people.
He noted that the community provides access to the oilfields located near the Atlantic coastline in Koluama, Southern Ijaw LGA.
2017 National Joint Public Service Negotiating Council holds in Yenagoa
Mrs Didi Walson-Jack is chairing the ongoing 2017 National Joint Public Service Negotiating Council meeting according to a statement issued by Service Welfare unit ,Ofice of Head of Service of the Federation.
Walson-Jack, Permanent Secretary in the Service Welfare Office at Office of Head of Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) was recently appointed to oversee the Service Welfare Office.
According to the statement issued by Mrs Juliet Archibong, Technical Assistant to Walson-Jack the meeting is underway in Yenagoa, Bayelsa capital from November 21 to 23.
The Council will afford the government and labour a platform to dialogue on the welfare of public servants to promote harmonious insustrial relations and eliminate conflict in the workplace.
The Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council would be attended by trade union leaders from the three negotiating councils representing eight industrial unions in the Federal Civil Service in Nigeria.
According to Archibong, participants on the government side of the negotiating table will include representative of stakeholder Ministries Departments and Agencies (MDAs) in the Federal Pubulic Service.
Others are Permanent Secretaries responsible for Establishment and or Industrial Relations in the 36 states and Federal Capital Territory.
Archibong said that the theme of the meeting is "Emerging Employer-Employee Relations Management Strategies for Adressing Potential Conflicts in the Public Sector"
Walson-Jack, Permanent Secretary in the Service Welfare Office at Office of Head of Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) was recently appointed to oversee the Service Welfare Office.
According to the statement issued by Mrs Juliet Archibong, Technical Assistant to Walson-Jack the meeting is underway in Yenagoa, Bayelsa capital from November 21 to 23.
The Council will afford the government and labour a platform to dialogue on the welfare of public servants to promote harmonious insustrial relations and eliminate conflict in the workplace.
The Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council would be attended by trade union leaders from the three negotiating councils representing eight industrial unions in the Federal Civil Service in Nigeria.
According to Archibong, participants on the government side of the negotiating table will include representative of stakeholder Ministries Departments and Agencies (MDAs) in the Federal Pubulic Service.
Others are Permanent Secretaries responsible for Establishment and or Industrial Relations in the 36 states and Federal Capital Territory.
Archibong said that the theme of the meeting is "Emerging Employer-Employee Relations Management Strategies for Adressing Potential Conflicts in the Public Sector"
Saturday 18 November 2017
Piracy: Police deploys 16 gunboats, 6, 000 men to Bayelsa waterways
The Bayelsa Police Command says it has deployed 16 patrol gunboats and some 6, 000 policemen to tackle sea piracy and criminality in Bayelsa waterways and ensure that the water channels were safe.
The Commissioner of Police, in Bayelsa, Mr. Asuquo Amba, revealed this in Yenagoa on Saturday during a visit by members of the State chapter of the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO).
The CLO team was led by its Chairman, Chief Nengi James.
Amba said the 6,000 personnel had been deployed and were undergoing marine training.
The Commissioner of Police, in Bayelsa, Mr. Asuquo Amba, revealed this in Yenagoa on Saturday during a visit by members of the State chapter of the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO).
The CLO team was led by its Chairman, Chief Nengi James.
Amba said the 6,000 personnel had been deployed and were undergoing marine training.
Thursday 16 November 2017
I recruited Dickson into PDP, and there is no rift between us, I am not competing with him -Jonathan
Former President Goodluck Jonathan on Thursday said that there was no rift between him and Bayelsa governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson contrary to perceptions held by some.
Jonathan spoke on his relationship with Dickson at his Otuoke country home when Gov Dickson led a Bayelsa government team on a condolence visit over the demise of Paramount Ruler of Otuoke Chief Lot Ogiasa.
Jonathan who went down memory lane and recalled the he persuaded Dickson to join Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and wondered why some people are using politics to create crisis where none existed.
Jonathan spoke on his relationship with Dickson at his Otuoke country home when Gov Dickson led a Bayelsa government team on a condolence visit over the demise of Paramount Ruler of Otuoke Chief Lot Ogiasa.
Jonathan who went down memory lane and recalled the he persuaded Dickson to join Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and wondered why some people are using politics to create crisis where none existed.
Tuesday 14 November 2017
Bayelsa Insecurity: Former Bayelsa Governor berates incubent Dickson for alleged smear campaign
Chief Timipre Sylva on Tuesday decried alleged camapign of calumny by the incumbent Gov Seriake Dickson attributing insecurity in Brass Local Government Area (LGA) of the state to Sylva.
Sylva, who denied any links with violence described the allegations and justifications of the smear campaign by the state government as indefensible in a statement issued by his media office.
The statement, signed by Media Adviser to Sylva, Mr Doifie Buokoribo, was in reaction to Dickson’s reply to a public alert about a coordinated defamation campaign against Sylva allegedly being plotted by the governor.
The duo have been trading blames since Sunday over recent violent clash between their supporters in Brass area of Bayelsa.
Sylva, who denied any links with violence described the allegations and justifications of the smear campaign by the state government as indefensible in a statement issued by his media office.
The statement, signed by Media Adviser to Sylva, Mr Doifie Buokoribo, was in reaction to Dickson’s reply to a public alert about a coordinated defamation campaign against Sylva allegedly being plotted by the governor.
The duo have been trading blames since Sunday over recent violent clash between their supporters in Brass area of Bayelsa.
Niger Delta Avengers was promoted by external forces -Ex IYC leader
Mr Udengs Eradiri, immediate President, Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) on Tuesday disclosed that some external forces are behind the activities of the militant group, the Niger Delta Avengers.
Saturday 11 November 2017
World Assembly of Youths bemoans abduction, killing of British Aid worker in Niger Delta
The World Assembly of Youth (WAY) at the weekend condemned the spate of kidnapping and hostage taking in Niger Delta resulting to recent death of a British aid worker in Delta.
Mr Preye Ketebu-Brown, Vice President of WAY told newsmen in Yenagoa that the death of Mr Ian Squire, British Optician, humanitarian and lover of Africa came as a shock to the youth body.
The youth leader noted that the trend of violence against non-combatant, unarmed civil populations in Africa calls for deep soul searching and socio-political re-appraisal of the state of our Society.
Mr Preye Ketebu-Brown, Vice President of WAY told newsmen in Yenagoa that the death of Mr Ian Squire, British Optician, humanitarian and lover of Africa came as a shock to the youth body.
The youth leader noted that the trend of violence against non-combatant, unarmed civil populations in Africa calls for deep soul searching and socio-political re-appraisal of the state of our Society.
Tuesday 7 November 2017
At least 40 detained criminals break and escape from Police detention facility in Yenagoa
At least 40 suspected armed robbers and cultists detained in the custody of the Special Anti Robbery Squad cell (SARS) on Tuesday broke free from the detention and escaped into the society.
A Policeman attached to the SARS who was drafted to cordon off the facility said that they were still taking stock of the number of inmates that escaped.
"The cell holds more than 50 suspects but it is empty so it is difficult to give an accurate number untill they check the records, but we hear that 42 criminals were being detained," the Policeman said.
A Policeman attached to the SARS who was drafted to cordon off the facility said that they were still taking stock of the number of inmates that escaped.
"The cell holds more than 50 suspects but it is empty so it is difficult to give an accurate number untill they check the records, but we hear that 42 criminals were being detained," the Policeman said.
Wednesday 1 November 2017
Census: 4th phase of Enumeration Area Demarcation kicks off in KOLGA, Bayelsa
Ahead the 2018 Census, the National Population Commision (NPC) on Wednesday kicked off the fourth phase of Enumeration Area Demarcation (EAD) in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area in Bayelsa.
Mrs Gloria Izonfuo, Federal Commissioner of the NPC in Bayelsa who announced the development during an advocacy visit to Chairman of Kolokuma/Opokuma LGA, called on the Chairman and stakeholders to support the Commission's activities in the state.
Izonfuo explained that the 4th phase of the EAD is being conducted nationwide by the Commission.
Mrs Gloria Izonfuo, Federal Commissioner of the NPC in Bayelsa who announced the development during an advocacy visit to Chairman of Kolokuma/Opokuma LGA, called on the Chairman and stakeholders to support the Commission's activities in the state.
Izonfuo explained that the 4th phase of the EAD is being conducted nationwide by the Commission.
Tuesday 31 October 2017
Bayelsa Police Command bemoans involvement of juveniles in drugs, parades 30 armed robbery suspects, 66 minors
The police high command in Bayelsa State has expressed concern over the increasing number of minors involved in criminal activities in the state.
Briefing journalists in his office on Tuesday, the state commissioner of police, Mr. Amba Asuquo said the command arrested 66 minors in the Ekeki area of the state for alleged involvement in various forms of criminal activities.
“On 29/10/2017 at about 2030hrs, ASP Stephen Omolegie and a team of SARS Yenagoa raided Ekeki community and arrested 36 males and 30 females under aged persons who are between the age range of 14 and 17.
Briefing journalists in his office on Tuesday, the state commissioner of police, Mr. Amba Asuquo said the command arrested 66 minors in the Ekeki area of the state for alleged involvement in various forms of criminal activities.
“On 29/10/2017 at about 2030hrs, ASP Stephen Omolegie and a team of SARS Yenagoa raided Ekeki community and arrested 36 males and 30 females under aged persons who are between the age range of 14 and 17.
Sunday 22 October 2017
Dickson traces poor performance of PDP as opposition party to unending internal crises
Gov. Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa on Sunday said that the People Democratic Party (PDP) has not played its expected role as an opposition party and traced the failure to provide credible opposition to numerous internal crises within the party.
Dickson who made the observation during a media chat with newsmen in Yenagoa said he remained optimistic that the PDP would bounce back to winning ways ahead the 2019 genwral elections.
The governor who headed the PDP reconciliation committee said there were internal forces within the party that were working against the emergence of a cohesive and strong PDP.
Saturday 21 October 2017
Immunisation rumours: Bayelsa Govt. endores Operation Crocodile Smile II, Army free medical service
The Bayelsa government on Saturday threw its weight behind the ongoing military training operation and its community relatiins components including free medical care by the Nigerian Army in the Niger Delta christened 'Operation Crocodile Smile II' amidst rumours that the military was forcing a lethal vacine on the South.
Gov Seriake Dickson called on the people of the state to discountenance the rumour making the rounds that, the Nigerian Army authorities are carrying out a medical outreach to endanger the health and safety of the people.
Dickson made the call in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Francis Ottah Agbo made available in Yenagoa.
Gov Seriake Dickson called on the people of the state to discountenance the rumour making the rounds that, the Nigerian Army authorities are carrying out a medical outreach to endanger the health and safety of the people.
Dickson made the call in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Francis Ottah Agbo made available in Yenagoa.
Monday 16 October 2017
WHO confirms outbreak of Monkey pox in Bayelsa as victim commits sucide at quarantine centre
WHO confirms outbreak of Monkey pox in Bayelsa as victim commits sucide at quarantine centre
The World Health Organisation (WHO) reference labouratory in Dakar, Senegal has confirmed that the viral disease that broke out in Bayelsa was caused by monkey pox virus, Sahara Reporters learnt.
Blood samples from the first 13 suspected victims were dispatched to the WHO facility three weeks ago for a confirmatory test following clinical diagnosis of monkey pox by medical doctors in Bayelsa and officials of the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) reference labouratory in Dakar, Senegal has confirmed that the viral disease that broke out in Bayelsa was caused by monkey pox virus, Sahara Reporters learnt.
Blood samples from the first 13 suspected victims were dispatched to the WHO facility three weeks ago for a confirmatory test following clinical diagnosis of monkey pox by medical doctors in Bayelsa and officials of the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control.
Sunday 15 October 2017
Sagbama-Ekeremor road, a dream come true for Bayelsa coastal communities- Commisioner
Sagbama-Ekeremor road, a dream come true for Bayelsa coastal communities- Commisioner
Dr Agatha Goma, Bayelsa Commissioner for Local Government Administration on Sunday applauded Gov. Seriake Dickson for the pace of work at the 48 kilometer Sagbama-Ekeremor road project.
Goma, who accompained Dickson on the road project inspection told newsmen at Aliebiri, Ekeremor Local Government Area that that driving to Ekeremor was historic as the area was hitherto accessible only by boat.
She described the governor who initiated the ambitious project a consummate leader whose achievements have opened the coastal settlements to the world by road.
She noted that the progeess so far made on the ongoing Sagbama Ekeremor Section of the Bayelsa East Senatorial Road reaching Aleibiri in Ekeremor LGA will ended suffering of residents who endured risky six hours boat ride to the state capital.
Dr. Goma said the commitment of the governor to the completion of the road which will terminate at Agge, proposed site for a deep sea port has projected Dickson as a man who has his eyes on history.
The commissioner said the Bayelsa West Road which had remained on engineers’ drawing board for more than fifty years has been made a reality by the governor whose mantra of infrastructure is already transforming the landscape of the state.
She noted that Dickson's has by massive investment on infrastructed like the Sagbam-Ekeremor road shown that he is a true Ijaw patriot whose legacies will remain a reference point for generations to come.
“The Bayelsa West Road is a lifelong aspiration of every true Ijaw man. For more than half a century, we have prayed and desired for this road. His Excellency is indeed a visionary actualizer of dreams. He has made our dream come true” Goma said.
According to her, road is a key to accelerated development, hence it will open up that section of the state to socio-economic advancement and promote security.
She called on the people of the state to continue to cooperate with the Dickson led government to ensure the holistic development of the state.
Dr Agatha Goma, Bayelsa Commissioner for Local Government Administration on Sunday applauded Gov. Seriake Dickson for the pace of work at the 48 kilometer Sagbama-Ekeremor road project.
Goma, who accompained Dickson on the road project inspection told newsmen at Aliebiri, Ekeremor Local Government Area that that driving to Ekeremor was historic as the area was hitherto accessible only by boat.
She described the governor who initiated the ambitious project a consummate leader whose achievements have opened the coastal settlements to the world by road.
She noted that the progeess so far made on the ongoing Sagbama Ekeremor Section of the Bayelsa East Senatorial Road reaching Aleibiri in Ekeremor LGA will ended suffering of residents who endured risky six hours boat ride to the state capital.
Dr. Goma said the commitment of the governor to the completion of the road which will terminate at Agge, proposed site for a deep sea port has projected Dickson as a man who has his eyes on history.
The commissioner said the Bayelsa West Road which had remained on engineers’ drawing board for more than fifty years has been made a reality by the governor whose mantra of infrastructure is already transforming the landscape of the state.
She noted that Dickson's has by massive investment on infrastructed like the Sagbam-Ekeremor road shown that he is a true Ijaw patriot whose legacies will remain a reference point for generations to come.
“The Bayelsa West Road is a lifelong aspiration of every true Ijaw man. For more than half a century, we have prayed and desired for this road. His Excellency is indeed a visionary actualizer of dreams. He has made our dream come true” Goma said.
According to her, road is a key to accelerated development, hence it will open up that section of the state to socio-economic advancement and promote security.
She called on the people of the state to continue to cooperate with the Dickson led government to ensure the holistic development of the state.
Saturday 14 October 2017
Operation Crocodile Smile II : Army not involved in any immunisationallays fears, urges Niger Delta people not to panic
Nigerian Army on Saturday allayed fears of the Niger Delta on the ongoing Operation Crocodile Smile II in Bayelsa says that the exercise was concieved to ward off criminals and protect the citizenry.
The new Army Brigade stationed in Yenagoa explained that the operation was to increase the combat readiness of the troops and increase their efficiency in the region.
The Commander, 16 Brigade Nigerian Army, Yenagoa, Brig.-Gen. Kevin Aligbe, said the Army began the operation with environmental sanitation and donation of medical equipment and drugs to hospitals.
Aligbe disabused the minds of the people about insinuations and suspicions that greeted the operation, saying there was no cause for alarm.
The new Army Brigade stationed in Yenagoa explained that the operation was to increase the combat readiness of the troops and increase their efficiency in the region.
The Commander, 16 Brigade Nigerian Army, Yenagoa, Brig.-Gen. Kevin Aligbe, said the Army began the operation with environmental sanitation and donation of medical equipment and drugs to hospitals.
Aligbe disabused the minds of the people about insinuations and suspicions that greeted the operation, saying there was no cause for alarm.
Friday 13 October 2017
Bayelsa Govt outlaws immunisation in schools as immunisation rumours shut schools
The Bayelsa government on Friday outlawed immunisation and health activities in schools following panic caused by false alarm raised over purported death of two pupils at St Judes Secondary School after recieving monkey pox immunisation.
Rumours of purported monkey pox immunisation mishap had compelled parents to withdraw their wards from schools on Wednesday and continued on Friday.
Health Minister Prof. Isaac Adewole had said that there was no vacine for the contagious monkey pox virus which broke out three weeks ago in Bayelsa.
Rumours of purported monkey pox immunisation mishap had compelled parents to withdraw their wards from schools on Wednesday and continued on Friday.
Health Minister Prof. Isaac Adewole had said that there was no vacine for the contagious monkey pox virus which broke out three weeks ago in Bayelsa.
Wednesday 11 October 2017
NDLEA arrests 38 suspected drug traffickers with 29.7 kg of hard drugs in Bayelsa in September
National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Bayelsa Command on Wednesday said it has arrested a total of 38 drug suspects in the state in the month of September, 2017.
The command said among the 38 arrested suspects includes 26 male adults and 12 female offenders
In a statement signed by the Principal Staff Officer and Superintendent of Narcotics,Mr Osakwe Ikenna , the Command said a total of 29.751 kilograms of illicit drugs were seized from the suspects which comprises of cannabis, sativa, psychotropic substances, heroin and cocaine.
The command said among the 38 arrested suspects includes 26 male adults and 12 female offenders
In a statement signed by the Principal Staff Officer and Superintendent of Narcotics,Mr Osakwe Ikenna , the Command said a total of 29.751 kilograms of illicit drugs were seized from the suspects which comprises of cannabis, sativa, psychotropic substances, heroin and cocaine.
NDLEA arrests 38 suspected drug traffickers with 29.7 kg of hard drugs in Bayelsa in September
National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Bayelsa Command on Wednesday said it has arrested a total of 38 drug suspects in the state in the month of September, 2017.
The command said among the 38 arrested suspects includes 26 male adults and 12 female offenders
In a statement signed by the Principal Staff Officer and Superintendent of Narcotics,Mr Osakwe Ikenna , the Command said a total of 29.751 kilograms of illicit drugs were seized from the suspects which comprises of cannabis, sativa, psychotropic substances, heroin and cocaine.
The command said among the 38 arrested suspects includes 26 male adults and 12 female offenders
In a statement signed by the Principal Staff Officer and Superintendent of Narcotics,Mr Osakwe Ikenna , the Command said a total of 29.751 kilograms of illicit drugs were seized from the suspects which comprises of cannabis, sativa, psychotropic substances, heroin and cocaine.
NDLEA arrests 38 suspected drug traffickers with 29.7 kg of hard drugs in Bayelsa in September
National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Bayelsa Command on Wednesday said it has arrested a total of 38 drug suspects in the state in the month of September, 2017.
The command said among the 38 arrested suspects includes 26 male adults and 12 female offenders
In a statement signed by the Principal Staff Officer and Superintendent of Narcotics,Mr Osakwe Ikenna , the Command said a total of 29.751 kilograms of illicit drugs were seized from the suspects which comprises of cannabis, sativa, psychotropic substances, heroin and cocaine.
The command said among the 38 arrested suspects includes 26 male adults and 12 female offenders
In a statement signed by the Principal Staff Officer and Superintendent of Narcotics,Mr Osakwe Ikenna , the Command said a total of 29.751 kilograms of illicit drugs were seized from the suspects which comprises of cannabis, sativa, psychotropic substances, heroin and cocaine.
NDLEA arrests 38 suspected drug traffickers with 29.7 kg of hard drugs in Bayelsa in September
National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Bayelsa Command on Wednesday said it has arrested a total of 38 drug suspects in the state in the month of September, 2017.
The command said among the 38 arrested suspects includes 26 male adults and 12 female offenders
In a statement signed by the Principal Staff Officer and Superintendent of Narcotics,Mr Osakwe Ikenna , the Command said a total of 29.751 kilograms of illicit drugs were seized from the suspects which comprises of cannabis, sativa, psychotropic substances, heroin and cocaine.
The command said among the 38 arrested suspects includes 26 male adults and 12 female offenders
In a statement signed by the Principal Staff Officer and Superintendent of Narcotics,Mr Osakwe Ikenna , the Command said a total of 29.751 kilograms of illicit drugs were seized from the suspects which comprises of cannabis, sativa, psychotropic substances, heroin and cocaine.
Human Trafficiking: Bayelsa is source, transit and destination say NAPTIP DG
The National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) on Wednesday said Bayelsa people were facing acute challenges posed by menace of human trafficking as a source of supply to the traffickers.
The agency however said it is seeking patnership with the Bayelsa government to reduce the high rate of human trafficking in the state.
Mrs Julie Okar-Donli, Director-General of NAPTIP said that the collaboration was crucial because Bayelsa was a source, transit and destination points for human trafficking.
The agency however said it is seeking patnership with the Bayelsa government to reduce the high rate of human trafficking in the state.
Mrs Julie Okar-Donli, Director-General of NAPTIP said that the collaboration was crucial because Bayelsa was a source, transit and destination points for human trafficking.
Army Brigade in solicits support for 'Operation Crocodile Smile II in Niger Delta
The 16 Brigade, Nigerian Army in Bayelsa has urged residents to support its ongoing Army Training Directive for the year 2017 codenamed Operation Crocodile Smiles II.
Spokesman for the Brigade Capt. Danjuma Danjuma who made the appeal in a statement issued on Wednesday said troops commenced operations Crocodile Smile II on the October 7, and expected to last till October 28, 2017.
"The Operations commenced with a confidence building patrol by a joint team of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in the Brigade’s Area of Responsibility.
"The patrol highlighted the operational capabilities of troops and other security agencies in a multi-facetted environment.
Spokesman for the Brigade Capt. Danjuma Danjuma who made the appeal in a statement issued on Wednesday said troops commenced operations Crocodile Smile II on the October 7, and expected to last till October 28, 2017.
"The Operations commenced with a confidence building patrol by a joint team of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in the Brigade’s Area of Responsibility.
"The patrol highlighted the operational capabilities of troops and other security agencies in a multi-facetted environment.
MonkeyPox: 7 out of 13 patients recover in Bayelsa
Seven out of the 13 patients infected with 'MonkeyPox' viral disease in Bayelsa have recovered fully and discharged from the Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital (NDUTH), Okolobiri where they were isolated.
The contagious disease broke out three weeks ago in Agbura area of Yenagoa in Bayelsa following reports that a family killed and ate monkey meat and subsequently presented symptoms of monkeypox.
The Bayelsa government subsequently advised residents to avoid eating bushment to curtail the spread of the disease from animals to humans.
The contagious disease broke out three weeks ago in Agbura area of Yenagoa in Bayelsa following reports that a family killed and ate monkey meat and subsequently presented symptoms of monkeypox.
The Bayelsa government subsequently advised residents to avoid eating bushment to curtail the spread of the disease from animals to humans.
Tuesday 10 October 2017
Alamieyeseigha Memorial Lecture: Don decries commercialization of resource control
Prof. Benjamin Okaba of the Federal University, Otuoke, Bayelsa has expressed dismay over the commercialization of the struggle for resource control in the Niger Delta by present day activists.
He said that it was regrettable that people who masquarade as Ijaw activists were engaged in the act for selfish commercial interests using the ijaw cause to attract personal commercial patronage.
Okaba spoke on Tuesday in Yenagoa at the Inaugural Annual Memorial Public Lecture in honor of the first civilian Governor of Bayelsa, Late Chief Diepreye Solomon Peter Alamieyeseigha.
The lecture was organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Bayelsa State Council with the theme: “True Federalism, Panacea for Sustainable Development”.
The don contended that if the struggle for resource control must continue and achieve result it must return to the days of Late Isaac Adaka Boro and others who sacrificed their lives for the struggle.
He stressed that devolution of power; resource control and true federalism is the key to sustainable development in Nigeria.
He insisted that until the imperfection in the Nigerian system is addressed, we shall continue to have problems as a nation which he said could assume more dangerous dimension until some part of the country is no longer treated as a slave to another.
Okaba who is the pioneer Director of the Institute of Foundation Studies at the Federal University Otuoke said it is not justifiable anywhere for the state to produce the wealth for the federal government.
"Sharing revenues that accrued from the states to the states at the end of every month in the name of federal allocations is cumbersome and percieved in some quarters as exploitative.
"These are the injustice that must be corrected if the nation must move forward, asking for resource control does not mean they are taking everything away.
"It is simply to,0 let every region control what they have and pay percentage to the central government which is the ideal thing to do in normal society where true federalism is being practiced", he said.
According to him, development is not just about infrastructure and money but also the development of the people which late Alamieyeseigha believed so much in.
He noted that the former governor fondly reffered to as 'Governor General of the Ijaw Nation developed peoples mind by creating a new consciousness in them.
"He also believed that the mindset of the people must be restructured if the Niger Delta must succeed in its agitation for self determination.
"Now that nations of the world are moving away from oil, the Niger Delta leaders should also look beyond oil and plan something on ground that will sustain the region in the future" the lecturer said.
Speaking earlier, the chairman of the occasion, Ambassador Godknows Igali said Alamieyeseigha was one of the greatest Ijaw leaders who cammanded the respect and love of the people.
According to him, most of the heroes produced in Ijawland do not have much impact on the people like late DSP.
“He gives directions to the people, courage, a man of visionary leadership, full of humility and with the fear of God. He played the politics of no bitterness and held no grudges against anybody.
"We will keep on celebrating him", he said
The former senator representing Nembe/Brass/Ogbia federal constituency, Senator Nimi Bariagha Amange, who x-rayed the life and times of late DSP. Alamieyeseigha, described him as a true Ijaw man .
He said Alamieyeseigha believed in the wellbeing of his people, a man who never holds grudges against anybody and very free with people across Niger Delta and beyond.
The royal father of the day, king Okpoitari Diongoli, described him as a dogged fighter, firm believer of resource control, and the emancipation of Ijaw Nation.
In his welcoming address, the chairman of Nigeria Union of journalists Bayelsa state council, Mr. John Angese, said the late icon laid a good legacy for the people to emulate.
He noted that the NUJ secretariat was conceived and built by him.
He described late Alamieyeseigha as a lover of the media and his contribution to journalism profession will remain in the annals of history.
He said the Bayelsa NUJ council decided to immortalise and honour Alamieyeseigha with this annual public lecture to keep his memory alive.
In attendance were the children and family members of the late Ijaw leader, media practitioners, traditional rulers, friends and other dignitaries across the country.
He said that it was regrettable that people who masquarade as Ijaw activists were engaged in the act for selfish commercial interests using the ijaw cause to attract personal commercial patronage.
Okaba spoke on Tuesday in Yenagoa at the Inaugural Annual Memorial Public Lecture in honor of the first civilian Governor of Bayelsa, Late Chief Diepreye Solomon Peter Alamieyeseigha.
The lecture was organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Bayelsa State Council with the theme: “True Federalism, Panacea for Sustainable Development”.
The don contended that if the struggle for resource control must continue and achieve result it must return to the days of Late Isaac Adaka Boro and others who sacrificed their lives for the struggle.
He stressed that devolution of power; resource control and true federalism is the key to sustainable development in Nigeria.
He insisted that until the imperfection in the Nigerian system is addressed, we shall continue to have problems as a nation which he said could assume more dangerous dimension until some part of the country is no longer treated as a slave to another.
Okaba who is the pioneer Director of the Institute of Foundation Studies at the Federal University Otuoke said it is not justifiable anywhere for the state to produce the wealth for the federal government.
"Sharing revenues that accrued from the states to the states at the end of every month in the name of federal allocations is cumbersome and percieved in some quarters as exploitative.
"These are the injustice that must be corrected if the nation must move forward, asking for resource control does not mean they are taking everything away.
"It is simply to,0 let every region control what they have and pay percentage to the central government which is the ideal thing to do in normal society where true federalism is being practiced", he said.
According to him, development is not just about infrastructure and money but also the development of the people which late Alamieyeseigha believed so much in.
He noted that the former governor fondly reffered to as 'Governor General of the Ijaw Nation developed peoples mind by creating a new consciousness in them.
"He also believed that the mindset of the people must be restructured if the Niger Delta must succeed in its agitation for self determination.
"Now that nations of the world are moving away from oil, the Niger Delta leaders should also look beyond oil and plan something on ground that will sustain the region in the future" the lecturer said.
Speaking earlier, the chairman of the occasion, Ambassador Godknows Igali said Alamieyeseigha was one of the greatest Ijaw leaders who cammanded the respect and love of the people.
According to him, most of the heroes produced in Ijawland do not have much impact on the people like late DSP.
“He gives directions to the people, courage, a man of visionary leadership, full of humility and with the fear of God. He played the politics of no bitterness and held no grudges against anybody.
"We will keep on celebrating him", he said
The former senator representing Nembe/Brass/Ogbia federal constituency, Senator Nimi Bariagha Amange, who x-rayed the life and times of late DSP. Alamieyeseigha, described him as a true Ijaw man .
He said Alamieyeseigha believed in the wellbeing of his people, a man who never holds grudges against anybody and very free with people across Niger Delta and beyond.
The royal father of the day, king Okpoitari Diongoli, described him as a dogged fighter, firm believer of resource control, and the emancipation of Ijaw Nation.
In his welcoming address, the chairman of Nigeria Union of journalists Bayelsa state council, Mr. John Angese, said the late icon laid a good legacy for the people to emulate.
He noted that the NUJ secretariat was conceived and built by him.
He described late Alamieyeseigha as a lover of the media and his contribution to journalism profession will remain in the annals of history.
He said the Bayelsa NUJ council decided to immortalise and honour Alamieyeseigha with this annual public lecture to keep his memory alive.
In attendance were the children and family members of the late Ijaw leader, media practitioners, traditional rulers, friends and other dignitaries across the country.
Sunday 8 October 2017
Monkeypox Disease: Bushmeat consumers in Bayelsa remain adamant defy warning insist bushmeat is safe
Consumers of bushmeat in Bayelsa said on Sunday that they are not perturbed by the outbreak of monkeypox a viral disease transmitted from wild animals to humans which was reported a forthnight ago and has infected at least 13 people.
It will be recalled that Prof Ebitimitula Etebu, Bayelsa Commisioner of Health in Bayelsa had on Friday announced that the number of reported cases at the isolation centre created to care for the victims has risen fro 11 to 13.
River Commisioner of Health Prof. Princewill Chike had at the weekend confirmed that the disease which was reported a forthnight ago in Bayelsa has spread to neighbouring Rivers with three cases so far reported.
Monkeypox: Bayelsa Govt steps up sensitization, advocacy campaign
Determined to curb the spread of the monkeypox viral disease, the Bayelsa government on Sunday said it has intensified its efforts especially in the area of public enlightenment and civic engagement.
The government urged residents of the state to report all suspected cases of the disease by calling the following toll free hotlines, 08066987752 and 08035474676 to reach the rapid response team of health ministry.
Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Daniel Iworiso-Markson who disclosed this in a statement said the sensitization campaign mounted on radio is with translations in all the local dialects in the state will be aggressively sustained.
The government urged residents of the state to report all suspected cases of the disease by calling the following toll free hotlines, 08066987752 and 08035474676 to reach the rapid response team of health ministry.
Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Daniel Iworiso-Markson who disclosed this in a statement said the sensitization campaign mounted on radio is with translations in all the local dialects in the state will be aggressively sustained.
Saturday 7 October 2017
Monkeypox spreads to Rivers as cases in Bayelsa rise to 13
The monkeypox diseases has spread to Rivers with three cases already recieving treatment at government hosoitals in Port Harcourt, River Commisioner of Health has confirmed.
The number of patients reported to be recieving treatment for the communicable monkeypox which broke out in Yenagoa Bayelsa capital has risen from 11 to 13, as the state government says there is no cause for alarm.
The 13 patients including a medical doctor and a 17 year old boy suspected to be infected with the monkeypox virus isolated at the Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital (NDUTH) Okolobiri in Bayelsa are responding to treatment and are at various stages of recovery.
The number of patients reported to be recieving treatment for the communicable monkeypox which broke out in Yenagoa Bayelsa capital has risen from 11 to 13, as the state government says there is no cause for alarm.
The 13 patients including a medical doctor and a 17 year old boy suspected to be infected with the monkeypox virus isolated at the Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital (NDUTH) Okolobiri in Bayelsa are responding to treatment and are at various stages of recovery.
Monkeypox” virus: Bayelsa people restrain from handshakes, hugs
Sequel to the outbreak of monkeypox viral diseases in Yenagoa, Bayelsa capital which has so far infected 11 people including a medical doctor, residents are avoiding handshakes and bodily contact in public places.
The development followed the advice by the Health Commisioner of Health Prof Ebitimitula Etebu to members of the public to wash hands frequently and maintain higher levels of personal hygiene to curtail spread of the disease.
Etebu had allayed fears of possible epidemic following the outbreak of the contagious viral disease, assuring that the state government was on top of the situation.
The development followed the advice by the Health Commisioner of Health Prof Ebitimitula Etebu to members of the public to wash hands frequently and maintain higher levels of personal hygiene to curtail spread of the disease.
Etebu had allayed fears of possible epidemic following the outbreak of the contagious viral disease, assuring that the state government was on top of the situation.
Wednesday 27 September 2017
Flood: River Nun overflows bank, submerges Tombia community in Yenagoa, Bayelsa.
The residents of Tombia community in Ekpetiama kingdom, Yenagoa Local Government Area woke up Monday morning to find out that flood had overtaken the community.
The flooding is sequel a surge from the River Nun which burst its bank over night as inhabitants are now left in shock over the development as vast farmlands with crops, houses and other valuables have been overtaken by the rampaging waters.
Some of the residents in the area who narrated their ordeal to a NAN correspondent said some houses as well as farmlands and fishing gear had been lost to the disaster.
Bayelsa was listed by the Nigerian Meteorological Servises Agency as one of the flood prone states in its 2017 rain forcast.
Tuesday 26 September 2017
Bayelsa constituents petition Dogara acuse Rep of neglect
A member of House of Representatives, Mr. Henry Ofongo, on Tuesday, came under attacks by his constituents in Southern Ijaw Federal Constituency, Bayelsa, for alleged poor performance at the National Assembly.
The constituents in an an open letter addressed to the Speaker of the House, Mr. Yakubu Dogara, accused Ofongo of neglecting his constitutional mandate and abandoning his constituency after his election.
In the letter, which was signed on their behalf by President, Federated Union of Southern Ijaw Students Mr Atobu Pilot and the President, Amassoma Community, Mr Ebiowei Saniyigha, they claimed the lawmaker was unfit to represent them.
The constituents in an an open letter addressed to the Speaker of the House, Mr. Yakubu Dogara, accused Ofongo of neglecting his constitutional mandate and abandoning his constituency after his election.
In the letter, which was signed on their behalf by President, Federated Union of Southern Ijaw Students Mr Atobu Pilot and the President, Amassoma Community, Mr Ebiowei Saniyigha, they claimed the lawmaker was unfit to represent them.
Former MEND leader applauds Buhari for sustaining Amnesty programme
Mr. Ebikabowei Victor-Ben, Former commander of the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND), popularly known as General Boyloaf, has applauded President Muhammadu Buhari for sustaining the Presidential Amnesty Scheme.
The ex-agitator noted that the President’s decision to continue with the Presidential Amnesty Ptogramme on assumption of in 2015, was a demonstration of his good intentions for youths of the Niger Delta region.
Victor-Ben spoke on Tuesday at a Peace day ceremony to mark the day agitators willingly dropped their arms at the Yenagoa Peace Park , opposite the Bayelsa Government House.
The ex-agitator noted that the President’s decision to continue with the Presidential Amnesty Ptogramme on assumption of in 2015, was a demonstration of his good intentions for youths of the Niger Delta region.
Victor-Ben spoke on Tuesday at a Peace day ceremony to mark the day agitators willingly dropped their arms at the Yenagoa Peace Park , opposite the Bayelsa Government House.
Bayelsa Govt. applauds Idyl for victory in Voice Nigeria musical reality show
The Bayelsa government on Monday applauded the sterling performance of 22 year old Daniel Diongoli popularly known as Idyl in the musical reality show 'Voice Nigeria' concluded on Sunday in South Africa.
In a statement issued by Mr Jonathan Obuebite, Bayelsa Commisioner for Information, the government described the emergence of IDYL as the winner of the voice Nigeria in South Africa as a welcome development.
IDYL, an undergraduate student at the State owned Niger Delta University, Amassoma hails from Kolokuma in Kolokuma/Opokuma local government area of the state.
Obuebite congratulated the winner and described his victory as a morale booster for other teeming youths in the state.
He said IDYL with his scintillating performance has showed to the world that Bayelsa is not and should not be seen as a place for militant activities.
Obuebite also extended his congratulations to IDYL’s coach in the competition, Timi Dakolo and other coaches – Yemi Alade, Waje, and Patoranking who at one point or the other helped him achieve this victory.
He also thanked the people of Bayelsa state particularly and Nigerians in general for voting for IDYL, and also the judges who were not political in taking the decision of announcing the winner.
The commissioner used the opportunity to call on youths in the state who have one talent or the other to always pursue their dream irrespective of whatever challenge they face on their way to achieving that dream.
It will be recalled that the state came third and fifth respectively in the 2017 NECO and WAEC.
Also, St. Judes Secondary school female basketball team retained the trophy in the just concluded MILO basketball competition for secondary schools in Nigeria.
Obuebite noted that the state government's huge investment in education sector particular the youths is continuing to yield desirable dividend.
In a statement issued by Mr Jonathan Obuebite, Bayelsa Commisioner for Information, the government described the emergence of IDYL as the winner of the voice Nigeria in South Africa as a welcome development.
IDYL, an undergraduate student at the State owned Niger Delta University, Amassoma hails from Kolokuma in Kolokuma/Opokuma local government area of the state.
Obuebite congratulated the winner and described his victory as a morale booster for other teeming youths in the state.
He said IDYL with his scintillating performance has showed to the world that Bayelsa is not and should not be seen as a place for militant activities.
Obuebite also extended his congratulations to IDYL’s coach in the competition, Timi Dakolo and other coaches – Yemi Alade, Waje, and Patoranking who at one point or the other helped him achieve this victory.
He also thanked the people of Bayelsa state particularly and Nigerians in general for voting for IDYL, and also the judges who were not political in taking the decision of announcing the winner.
The commissioner used the opportunity to call on youths in the state who have one talent or the other to always pursue their dream irrespective of whatever challenge they face on their way to achieving that dream.
It will be recalled that the state came third and fifth respectively in the 2017 NECO and WAEC.
Also, St. Judes Secondary school female basketball team retained the trophy in the just concluded MILO basketball competition for secondary schools in Nigeria.
Obuebite noted that the state government's huge investment in education sector particular the youths is continuing to yield desirable dividend.
Niger Delta : Group to partner Bayelsa Govt to tackle illegal emigration of youths to Europe
A Non Governmental Organisation (NGO) has berated the mass exodus of youths from the Niger Delta region from illegal routes and has proffered to find solutions in collaboratio with Bayelsa government.
A German-based NGO, African Tide Union (ATU) and the Bayelsa government on Tuesday commenced partnership to create jobs for teeming unemployed youths as part of solutions to the Niger Delta crisis.
A 10-member team of ATU, led by the union's President, Ms Roselyn Dressman, presented a Niger Delta Master Plan for the job-creation project to the Bayelsa Deputy Governor, Rear Admiral John Jonah (rtd) in Government House, Yenagoa.
Speaking on the project, ATU's Youth Ambassador, Ms Tarilaya Weber, said the master plan entitled, Reduce Migration, Activate Returnees (Red-Mas) was developed to stop desperate migration of youths from the Niger Delta to European countries.
A German-based NGO, African Tide Union (ATU) and the Bayelsa government on Tuesday commenced partnership to create jobs for teeming unemployed youths as part of solutions to the Niger Delta crisis.
A 10-member team of ATU, led by the union's President, Ms Roselyn Dressman, presented a Niger Delta Master Plan for the job-creation project to the Bayelsa Deputy Governor, Rear Admiral John Jonah (rtd) in Government House, Yenagoa.
Speaking on the project, ATU's Youth Ambassador, Ms Tarilaya Weber, said the master plan entitled, Reduce Migration, Activate Returnees (Red-Mas) was developed to stop desperate migration of youths from the Niger Delta to European countries.
Sunday 24 September 2017
Bayelsa Govt seeks probe of pirates attack on vessel that killed 3 security escorts in Bayelsa waterways
The Bayelsa Government on Sunday condemed and emanded an investigation of the attack on an oil services vessel on Friday that left three crewmen comprising two security escorts dead in Ikebiri waterways in the state.
The government said that report at its disposal indicate that a Police officer, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) personnel and a civilian crew member in the ill-fated vessel lost their lives I the attack.
The government which conveyed its position in a stayement issued by Commisioner for I formatio , Mr Jonathan Obuebite described as criminal act.
The government said that report at its disposal indicate that a Police officer, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) personnel and a civilian crew member in the ill-fated vessel lost their lives I the attack.
The government which conveyed its position in a stayement issued by Commisioner for I formatio , Mr Jonathan Obuebite described as criminal act.
Former CPS drums support for Dickson led Bayelsa Govt from Ogbia youths
The immediate past Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa, Mr Daniel Iworiso-Markson on Sunday called on youths of Ogbia Local Government to support the governor in his quest to make life more meaningful to them.
According to him, the governor has excelleed in developing human capacity in the state, through his massive investment in education and manpower development.
Iworiso-Markson made the call while delivering a lecture entitled: "Dangers of hard drugs and cultism", as a Special Guest of Honour during the first Ogbia Students Conference with the theme: "Education as the panacea for National Development."
According to him, the governor has excelleed in developing human capacity in the state, through his massive investment in education and manpower development.
Iworiso-Markson made the call while delivering a lecture entitled: "Dangers of hard drugs and cultism", as a Special Guest of Honour during the first Ogbia Students Conference with the theme: "Education as the panacea for National Development."
Saturday 23 September 2017
Militants attack oilservices vessel kill 3 crew members in Bayelsa creeks
Barely three weeks after an ambush on a military houseboat that killed two in Southern Ijaw creeks in Bayelsa suspected militants have attacked a tugboat laden with crude oil in the same area and killed three crew members.
Gunmen suspected to be Niger Delta militants had on August 28, 2017 ambushed a housboat operated by the Joint Task Force and killed a soldier and a civillian crew member.
A vessel with a combined team of security escort on board and civilians was attacked on Friday by suspected sea pirates, at Ekebiri Waterways in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa.
Gunmen suspected to be Niger Delta militants had on August 28, 2017 ambushed a housboat operated by the Joint Task Force and killed a soldier and a civillian crew member.
A vessel with a combined team of security escort on board and civilians was attacked on Friday by suspected sea pirates, at Ekebiri Waterways in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa.
Friday 22 September 2017
Bioresources Centre Odi in Bayelsa developes capacity to trace stolen crude
The Minister of Science and Technology Dr Ogbonaya Onu, on Friday said the Bioresourses Development Centre at Odi has developed indegenous technology for chemical 'fingerprinting of crude oil'.
Speaking at the inuaguration of the Advanced Bioresources Laboratory and Lvestock Feed Milling Complex, the Minister explained that the facility would assist in tracing the source of stolen crude crude.
Wednesday 20 September 2017
Man, 40, bags 8 yearjail term for defiling 4 year old girl and 5 year old boy in Bayelsa
Mr Godbless Abe, who hails from Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, Bayelsa was on Wednesdey sentenced to eight years in prison for defiling underage boy and girl.
Chief Magistrate Utovie Spiff who presides at Chief Magistrate Court sitting in Yenagoa in a ruling found the suspect guilty and convicted him on two counts of unlawful sexual intercourse of a four-year-old girl and unlawful carnal knowledge of a five-year-old boy.
Chief Magistrate Utovie Spiff who presides at Chief Magistrate Court sitting in Yenagoa in a ruling found the suspect guilty and convicted him on two counts of unlawful sexual intercourse of a four-year-old girl and unlawful carnal knowledge of a five-year-old boy.
Monday 18 September 2017
Niger Delta: Dickson wants Ijaw Youths to lead advocacy to end marginalization, environmental pollution
Gov. Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa on Monday called on the leadership of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) to lead advocacy to end economic marginalization and environmental pollution affecting the Niger Delta region.
He also called on the youth body to collaborate with the state government in addressing the age-long problems of under-development of the Ijaw nation by successive administrations at the federal level.
Dickson, who made the call when the youth body led by its national President, Mr Roland Oweilaemi paid him a courtesy call in Government House, Yenagoa,.
He also called on the youth body to collaborate with the state government in addressing the age-long problems of under-development of the Ijaw nation by successive administrations at the federal level.
Dickson, who made the call when the youth body led by its national President, Mr Roland Oweilaemi paid him a courtesy call in Government House, Yenagoa,.
Boroh runs Presidential Amnesty Office in a transparent manner-Official
Mr Jude Gbaboyor, Special Assistant on Social Media to Cordinator of Presidentia, Ammnesty Programme Brig-Gen Paul Boroh (rtd) on Monday reiterated that the Amnesty Office is run transparently in accordance to best practices.
Gbaboyor who represented Boroh in a one day seminar on the use of social media in information dissemination in Yenagoa condemned the use of social media to disseminate falsehood in the guise of whistle blowing.
He dismissed allegations by interest groups sponsored by non performing contractors accusing the amnesty office of lack of transparency in its financial dealings saying that misuse of social media to misinform the people was unfortunate.
The media aide explained that Boroh has nothing to hide as his hard earned reputation in the military and the United Nations, cannot be dented through blatant lies, intimidation and cheap blackmail on social media by frustrated persons.
Gbaboyor who represented Boroh in a one day seminar on the use of social media in information dissemination in Yenagoa condemned the use of social media to disseminate falsehood in the guise of whistle blowing.
He dismissed allegations by interest groups sponsored by non performing contractors accusing the amnesty office of lack of transparency in its financial dealings saying that misuse of social media to misinform the people was unfortunate.
The media aide explained that Boroh has nothing to hide as his hard earned reputation in the military and the United Nations, cannot be dented through blatant lies, intimidation and cheap blackmail on social media by frustrated persons.
Niger Delta Youths berate poor outing at National Council on Niger Delta, urges Buhari to drop Minister
Youths from the Niger Delta region under the auspices of Niger Delta Youth Governance Monitoring Group (NDYGMG) has criticised the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs for poor outing at the just concluded National Council on Niger Delta held in Akure Ondo between September 7-14.
NDYGMG in a statement issued by Mr Emmanuel U. Justin, Director of Press Affairs condemned the disharmony between the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Pastor Usani Usani and stakeholders in the Niger Delta region which resulted to poor attendance at the meeting.
They noted that it was regrettable that the Minister in connivance with the Country Director of UNDP in Nigeria Mr Mathew Alao to oppose the participation of youth leaders who were invited to participate in the meeting.
NDYGMG in a statement issued by Mr Emmanuel U. Justin, Director of Press Affairs condemned the disharmony between the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Pastor Usani Usani and stakeholders in the Niger Delta region which resulted to poor attendance at the meeting.
They noted that it was regrettable that the Minister in connivance with the Country Director of UNDP in Nigeria Mr Mathew Alao to oppose the participation of youth leaders who were invited to participate in the meeting.
Thursday 14 September 2017
Bayelsa Govt creates over 7, 000 jobs with N1.88bn boost to SMEs in 5 years
Bayelsa government on Thursday said it created over 7,000 direct and indirect jobs within the past five years through the release of N1.88bn SME loans to entrepreneurs and cooperatives.
Deputy Governor of the state Rear Admiral John Jonah (Rtd) , who represented Gov Seriake Dickson stated this at the 2017 African SME EXPO with the theme Promoting SMEs for sustainable development and economic growth,.
The administration, according to Dickson, achieved the feat in partnership with the Bank of Industry and other relevant agencies to enhance the growth of SMEs with direct impact on the economic growth of the state.
Tuesday 12 September 2017
SPDC, host community differ on cause of oil leak at Bisenim oilfields in Bayelsa
SPDC, host community differ on cause of oil leak at Bisenim oilfields in Bayelsa
The cause of an oil spill at Tambiri I and II in Tein community in Biseni, Yenagoa Local Government Area, Bayelsa has sparked off a disagreement between residents and the oil firm operating at the oil fields.
It was gathered that the oil spill incident at an oilfield operated by Shell Petroleum Develppment Company (SPDC) occured on August 11, 2017.
Community sources said on Tuesday that unascertained volume of crude leaked from the oil facility, polluting and impacted the environment of Biseni people who are mainly farmers and fishermen.
An official of Tambiri II Community Development Committee, Clinton Beworu Amaorum said that the oil spill was caused by equipment failure and has leaked into one of the big Lakes in the area which supports their fishing occupation.
"The oil leak discharge very high volume of crude oil into the environment, it is difficult to estimate the volume of oil discharge because the spill occured about one month ago and we hoped that a joint visit to the site with regulators and SPDC will arrive at an estimate.
"Unfortunately the Joint Investigative Visit (JIV) has not taken place as far as we know because it was inconclusive and ended in a stalemate.
"The things that have been affected are aquatic lives, our ponds, Lakes, farmlands, and economic trees. These are some of the things the oil spillage has affected’’, Amaorum said.
Amaorum explained that some representatives of the SPDC and regulators visited the impacted site few days after the incident but engaged in an argument over whether the leakage was due to equipment failure or sabotage.
SPDC officials had maintained that the spill incident occurred from a well that has not been producing.
Precious Okolobo, SPDC's Media Relations Manager in a statement confirming the leakage said the company started recovery of spilled oil the day after the incident happened but it was disrupted by community people.
"During a joint investigation visit to the impacted area from August 13 to 17 "it was clear that unknown persons had tampered with the well valve.
"The JIV report has yet to be signed off. The community people have now agreed that SPDC should resume the recovery of spilled oil.
"SPDC will continue to operate with a high sense of responsibility for humans and the environment", Okolobo stated.
The cause of an oil spill at Tambiri I and II in Tein community in Biseni, Yenagoa Local Government Area, Bayelsa has sparked off a disagreement between residents and the oil firm operating at the oil fields.
It was gathered that the oil spill incident at an oilfield operated by Shell Petroleum Develppment Company (SPDC) occured on August 11, 2017.
Community sources said on Tuesday that unascertained volume of crude leaked from the oil facility, polluting and impacted the environment of Biseni people who are mainly farmers and fishermen.
An official of Tambiri II Community Development Committee, Clinton Beworu Amaorum said that the oil spill was caused by equipment failure and has leaked into one of the big Lakes in the area which supports their fishing occupation.
"The oil leak discharge very high volume of crude oil into the environment, it is difficult to estimate the volume of oil discharge because the spill occured about one month ago and we hoped that a joint visit to the site with regulators and SPDC will arrive at an estimate.
"Unfortunately the Joint Investigative Visit (JIV) has not taken place as far as we know because it was inconclusive and ended in a stalemate.
"The things that have been affected are aquatic lives, our ponds, Lakes, farmlands, and economic trees. These are some of the things the oil spillage has affected’’, Amaorum said.
Amaorum explained that some representatives of the SPDC and regulators visited the impacted site few days after the incident but engaged in an argument over whether the leakage was due to equipment failure or sabotage.
SPDC officials had maintained that the spill incident occurred from a well that has not been producing.
Precious Okolobo, SPDC's Media Relations Manager in a statement confirming the leakage said the company started recovery of spilled oil the day after the incident happened but it was disrupted by community people.
"During a joint investigation visit to the impacted area from August 13 to 17 "it was clear that unknown persons had tampered with the well valve.
"The JIV report has yet to be signed off. The community people have now agreed that SPDC should resume the recovery of spilled oil.
"SPDC will continue to operate with a high sense of responsibility for humans and the environment", Okolobo stated.
Environmental rights group urges Shell to remediate oil leak site in Bayelsa
The Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN) has urged Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) to clean up and remediate an oil leak site from one of its oil fields in Bayelsa
It was gathered that massive volume of crude was discharged into the environment at Tambiri I and II in Tein community, Biseni clan of Yenagoa Local Government Area, Bayelsa
The oil leak occurred on August 11, 2017.
Friday 8 September 2017
World Physiotherapy Day: Expert stresses need for increased physical activities
Mr Olugbenga Popoola, the Head of Department of Physiotherapy, Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Yenagoa, has stressed the need for increased physical activities for healthy living.
Popoola said this during an interview session to commemorate the 2017 World Physiotherapy Day on Friday in Yenagoa.
He said the day was to recognise the role of physiotherapists to their patients and to communities, with “Physical Activity for Life” as its theme for this year.
The head of department, who noted that physiotherapists played important roles in healthy living, especially in ageing, said “including physical activities in one’s lifestyle can make the bones stronger.
Popoola said this during an interview session to commemorate the 2017 World Physiotherapy Day on Friday in Yenagoa.
He said the day was to recognise the role of physiotherapists to their patients and to communities, with “Physical Activity for Life” as its theme for this year.
The head of department, who noted that physiotherapists played important roles in healthy living, especially in ageing, said “including physical activities in one’s lifestyle can make the bones stronger.
Sunday 3 September 2017
Female journalist emerges Labour party candidate in Anambra
Mrs Oluchukwu Ajulufo, a journalist who worked with Ray Power has emerged the governorship candidate of Labour Party for the Nov. 18, governorship election in Anambra.
Ajulufo was nominated by affirmative action and unanimous vote of the 64-man delegate at the primary election in Awka on Saturday.
Ajulufo is the second female to emerge as governorship candidate after Mrs Kate Okafor of African Conscience Democrat (ACD).
Ajulufo was nominated by affirmative action and unanimous vote of the 64-man delegate at the primary election in Awka on Saturday.
Ajulufo is the second female to emerge as governorship candidate after Mrs Kate Okafor of African Conscience Democrat (ACD).
Bayelsa Govt condemns attack on JTF , commiserates with military over death of 2
The Bayelsa government has condemned the recent ambush and killing of members of a security patrol team by unknown gunmen around Letugbene community in Ekeremor Local Government Area of the state.
The armed men suspected to be militants had on August 28 ambushed a security boat operated my the joint military force and killed two crew members, a soldier and a civillian.
Spokesman of the Joint Task Force deployed to the Niger Delta Major Ibrahim Abdullahi had on Friday confirmed the death of a soldier and civillian crew member in the attack.
Saturday 2 September 2017
Bayelsa Govt condemns attack on JTF , commiserates with military over death of 2
The Bayelsa government has condemned the recent ambush and killing of members of a security patrol team by unknown gunmen around Letugbene community in Ekeremor Local Government Area of the state.
The armed men suspected to be militants had on August 28 ambushed a security boat operated my the joint military force and killed two crew members, a soldier and a civillian.
Spokesman of the Joint Task Force deployed to the Niger Delta Major Ibrahim Abdullahi had on Friday confirmed the death of a soldier and civillian crew member in the attack.
The armed men suspected to be militants had on August 28 ambushed a security boat operated my the joint military force and killed two crew members, a soldier and a civillian.
Spokesman of the Joint Task Force deployed to the Niger Delta Major Ibrahim Abdullahi had on Friday confirmed the death of a soldier and civillian crew member in the attack.
Wednesday 30 August 2017
Militants ambush and kill four soldiers and a civilian Bayelsa creeks
In what appears to be a resumption of hostilities gunmen, suspected to be Niger Delta militants attacked and killed four soldiers and a civilian in Ekeremor waterways, Bayelsa .
The armed militants reportedly laid ambush for the soldiers along the waterways of Letugbene, Ekeremor Local Government Area of the state.
Community sources said on Wednesday that a team of soldiers returning from Letugbene community on Monday became victims of an ambush laid by armed militants.
The armed militants reportedly laid ambush for the soldiers along the waterways of Letugbene, Ekeremor Local Government Area of the state.
Community sources said on Wednesday that a team of soldiers returning from Letugbene community on Monday became victims of an ambush laid by armed militants.
Monday 28 August 2017
Niger Delta Youth leader urges FG to kickstart NNPC's 20 point agenda
Mr Kenedy West, Senior Special Assistant to the Bayelsa governor on Niger Delta youth matters has urged the federal government to kickstart its development plan for the region.
West who made the call in an interview session on Monday, said the plan was part of Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation's (NNPC) 20 point agenda for the region.
West said that Niger Delta youths have observed that past governments have payed lip service to the development needs of the Niger Delta but noted that the Buhari administration has come up with a feasible plan by NNPC.
Sunday 27 August 2017
Its true federalism, restructuring or nothing, militant group warns FG
The Niger Delta Vindicators, one of the agitating militant group says implimenting the principles of true federalism and restructuring hold the key to national unity that the nation seeks or the country would face disintegration.
Mr. Oyege Nimi Brown, National Cordinator of the group made the submission in an interview session with newsmen on Sunday in Yenagoa.
Brown noted that calls for restructuring the country was an opportunity for the federating units to review ways of strenghtening unity of the Nigerian nation.
Mr. Oyege Nimi Brown, National Cordinator of the group made the submission in an interview session with newsmen on Sunday in Yenagoa.
Brown noted that calls for restructuring the country was an opportunity for the federating units to review ways of strenghtening unity of the Nigerian nation.
Saturday 19 August 2017
Bayelsa Govt seeks probe of deaths at APC congress in Yenagoa
The Bayelsa government on Saturday condemned the vilence that resulted in loss of two lives and injury to nine persons during Friday's congress of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the party's secretariate in Yenagoa.
The government also expressed concern over the regular violence and insecurity that takes place during activities of the APC in the state.
Unidentified gunmen suspected to be political thugs had of Friday invaded the APC secretariate during the inuaguration of the new caretaker Chairman of the party Mr Joseph Fafi.
The government also expressed concern over the regular violence and insecurity that takes place during activities of the APC in the state.
Unidentified gunmen suspected to be political thugs had of Friday invaded the APC secretariate during the inuaguration of the new caretaker Chairman of the party Mr Joseph Fafi.
Monday 14 August 2017
LGA funds: NULGE has vindicated Bayelsa Govt - Commisioner
The Bayelsa government on Monday said The Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) has vindicated it on the joint account with councils.
Commisioner for Local Government Administration, Dr. Agatha Goma expressed the view in a reaction to NULGE's statement saying that Bayelsa government does not tamper with council funds.
She said that NULGE's stance on accountability, probity and transparency in the handling of the finances of the Local Government Councils in the state reinforced the position of government.
NULGE in a statement on August 7 advocating local government autonomy in the ongoing constitutional review applauded Bayelsa's non tampering with council funds.
The union clarified that the state government has never interfered or tempered with the funds meant for the local government council.
Goma stated that labour is now on the same page with the state government on the accumulated salary arrears to workers in the councils.
She said that it has become evident that the backlog is not as a result of mismanagement or deliberate ploy to punish workers.
She said that the development was due to the drastically reduced allocation to the councils due to the national economic downturn.
The Commissioner said government has demonstrated its commitment to ensuring that all agreements reached with labour by the Local Government Councils are implemented to the letter.
She said government showed the commitmen with the dedication of the recent London Paris Club Loan refund to paying salary.
She also attributed the increment in the local government allocation from the Federation Account to investment in security by the state Government.
According to Goma security in Bayelsa has guaranteed a peaceful environment for oil exploration in the state.
"But for the investment in security, we could not have witnessed the relative peace we now enjoy which has created a friendly environment for oil exploration.
"Oil proceeeds from derivation forms the main stay of the state economy," Goma said.
Goma also noted that increment in the allocation to the councils for the month of July gave the council leverage as some of the councils paid up to three months in salary arrears.
While expressing hope that things can only get better, Goma urged NULGE to work with the councils in order to resolve the issues of indiscipline, ghost workers and over blotted wage bill.
She also made appealed to the unions to call-off their strike saying they have made their point and government heard them loud and clear.
It will be recalled that the local government workers in Bayelsa are currently on strike over 14 months salary arrears in some councils in the state.
Goma added that there may be no justification to continue with the strike since government is already addressing their grievances.
On delay in payment of primary school teachers in Ogbia Local Government, she said the teachers will receive their salary before the end of the week.
The Commisioner explained that the leadership of the council is working with the government to facilitate the payment.
Commisioner for Local Government Administration, Dr. Agatha Goma expressed the view in a reaction to NULGE's statement saying that Bayelsa government does not tamper with council funds.
She said that NULGE's stance on accountability, probity and transparency in the handling of the finances of the Local Government Councils in the state reinforced the position of government.
NULGE in a statement on August 7 advocating local government autonomy in the ongoing constitutional review applauded Bayelsa's non tampering with council funds.
The union clarified that the state government has never interfered or tempered with the funds meant for the local government council.
Goma stated that labour is now on the same page with the state government on the accumulated salary arrears to workers in the councils.
She said that it has become evident that the backlog is not as a result of mismanagement or deliberate ploy to punish workers.
She said that the development was due to the drastically reduced allocation to the councils due to the national economic downturn.
The Commissioner said government has demonstrated its commitment to ensuring that all agreements reached with labour by the Local Government Councils are implemented to the letter.
She said government showed the commitmen with the dedication of the recent London Paris Club Loan refund to paying salary.
She also attributed the increment in the local government allocation from the Federation Account to investment in security by the state Government.
According to Goma security in Bayelsa has guaranteed a peaceful environment for oil exploration in the state.
"But for the investment in security, we could not have witnessed the relative peace we now enjoy which has created a friendly environment for oil exploration.
"Oil proceeeds from derivation forms the main stay of the state economy," Goma said.
Goma also noted that increment in the allocation to the councils for the month of July gave the council leverage as some of the councils paid up to three months in salary arrears.
While expressing hope that things can only get better, Goma urged NULGE to work with the councils in order to resolve the issues of indiscipline, ghost workers and over blotted wage bill.
She also made appealed to the unions to call-off their strike saying they have made their point and government heard them loud and clear.
It will be recalled that the local government workers in Bayelsa are currently on strike over 14 months salary arrears in some councils in the state.
Goma added that there may be no justification to continue with the strike since government is already addressing their grievances.
On delay in payment of primary school teachers in Ogbia Local Government, she said the teachers will receive their salary before the end of the week.
The Commisioner explained that the leadership of the council is working with the government to facilitate the payment.
Monday 24 July 2017
Prison inmantes detonate explosive in attempted jail break
Some inmates of Okaka Prisons in Yenagoa on Monday detonated improvised explosive device in an attempted jail break but six of them inmates were said to be rearrested even as sources near the facility say some prisoners may have escaped given the time it took for reinforcement to come.
Nigerian Prison Authourities habitually cover up jail break attempts to save their jobs.
Mr Victor Chiabua, Controller, Nigerian Prison Command in the state said on Monday, that the incident occurred at about 9.02pm on Sunday, and denied the escape of some prisoners.
Nigerian Prison Authourities habitually cover up jail break attempts to save their jobs.
Mr Victor Chiabua, Controller, Nigerian Prison Command in the state said on Monday, that the incident occurred at about 9.02pm on Sunday, and denied the escape of some prisoners.
Thursday 20 July 2017
Group appeals to Police to free Nursing mother kidnapped in Brass LGA, Bayelsa
Group appeals to Police to free Nursing mother kidnapped in Brass LGA, Bayelsa
A lactating mother was on Tuesday separated from her few weeks old baby by kidnappers who abducted her and whisked to an unknown destination, denying the newborn of nourishment.
The Supreme Council for Non-Indigenes in Bayelsa State has condemned the kidnap of Mrs. Roselyn Okokingho by yet to be identified criminals who broke into her home around 8.45pm on Teusday at Twon Brass in Brass Local Government Area of the state.
Wednesday 19 July 2017
Militants attack JTF again, 5 die during cross fire in Rivers
An early
morning attack on the joint military force deployed to Rivers state , the
second within one week left five people dead amidst fears of renewed agitation
in the Niger Delta region.
The Joint
Task Force (JTF) deployed to the Niger Delta announced on Wednesday that troops
had killed four militants, following an encounter with troops in Rivers.
The
Deputy Commander of the JTF, Brig.-Gen. Kevin Aligbe, who confirmed the
development in Yenagoa, said that a civilian member of the JTF crew aboard the
troops’ boat died in the attack.
Aligbe
explained that four other soldiers, who sustained injuries in the attack, were
currently receiving medical attention in Port Harcourt.
He
recalled that on July 13, troops deployed to Ogboubagbene Community in the
Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta came under similar attack that resulted
to the death of a soldier.
According
to him, an operative of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps as well
as a policeman, who are members of the task force, got injured in the attack.
He said
that the militants had carted away some military hardware during the attack.
Aligbe
said, however, that troops were trailing the suspects, whom he said, had fled
to some communities after the incident.
The JTF
chief warned the communities to refrain from shielding or habouring criminals.
He
enjoined residents of Ogboubagbene Community to reveal the identities of the
criminals before they would be “smoked out’’ from their hideouts to face
justice.
Aligbe
dismissed reports that the military invaded the communities, molested innocent
people and destroyed property.
Stakeholders
including the Ijaw Youths Council and the Civil Liberties Organisation had
raised alarm and alleged that the military had overrun the communities and
violated the rights of residents.
He said
that the ongoing effort to fish out those behind the attack was within the
rules of engagement and operating procedure of the task force.
“Following
the malicious and unsubstantiated reports, I and other component commanders of
the JTF and the Paramount Ruler of the community, Chief Godspower Oporomo, Pere
of Kerebiri and Chiefs from 10 communities visited the sites they said hadbeen
razed by troops.
“We found
the entire communities to be in a calm and peaceful state while the residents
were seen going about their normal activities. The reports were false,” Aligbe
said.
He
applauded residents of the Niger Delta for their support to the task force,
urging them to sustain the support.
The
commander also told the residents to assist the task force with timely
information that would assist them in ridding the region of criminality
Tuesday 18 July 2017
Cultism and Crime: Bayelsa Police takes campaign to schools
The Bayelsa Police Command has commenced a campaign against cultism
following the spread of the menace amongst teenagers and is taking its advocacy
to schools in Bayelsa.
Most violent crimes resulting to killing of victims recorded within the
past six months in Bayelsa including the most recent killing of a former
Defense Academy cadet in Bayelsa have been traced
Assistant Commissioner of Police,
(ACP) Bayelsa Command, Mr Mike Vigara, who flagged off the campaign on Tuesday
urged young people to shun crime and cultism in the society.
He gave the advice during a campaign visit to Billari International
School, Tombia Imiringi road in the outskirts of Yenagoa, Bayelsa capital.
The title of his campaign is "why young people must shun crime and
cultism.
The ACP implored the young to be courageous in life, and shun any act
which will put them into criminality to warrant their arrest.
The Police Chief, said the essence of living is to find solutions to the
problems of humanity, adding that students are in school to get knowledge to solve
the problems of mankind and make the earth a better place.
According to him, "Once a person goes into crime it is always difficult
to come out of it.
"Crime is evil and wicked; it does not pay anyone but destroys
society
and the future of the person committing it.
"Take the massage home to your friends and families that crime can
destroy, if the person is caught, will be arrested by the police for
prosecution," he said.
Vigara, said criminals do not last long in criminality as they always
leave trails that eventually give them out for arrest by law enforcement
officials which includes the Police amongst others.
In his remark, the Principal of the School, Mr. Benjamin Osei-Tutu,
commended, the Police Command for the campaign to shun crime amongst
youngnpeople.
He urged the POlice to sustain the campaign and take it to other private
and public schools in the state.
The Principal lauded the campaign carried out by the Police to make
young people become better people in their future.
In his address, the Senior Prefect of the School, Miss Filomina Anzewei,
expressed satisfaction for the sensitization to better their future.
She described the advice as one which will shape their future, and the
way they will be doing things going forward.
She, urged her fellow students to imbibe and put to use what they have
learnt from the Assistant Commissioner of Police.
We remain professional, civil in search killers of soldier in Niger Delta- JTF
The Joint Task Force (JTF) deployed to the Niger Delta on Tuesday
assured that its ongoing operation to fish out killers of its soldier in Delta
at the weekend is within its rule of engagement.
Unidentified gunmen
had killed a soldier on duty at Ogbugbagbene settlement , Burutu Local
Government Area of Delta on Saturday and made away with the slain soldier’s
arms.
The assurance followed concerns expressed by stakeholders
who claimed that the military had invaded communities near the crime scene.
Monday 17 July 2017
OF NIGER DELTA DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION(NNDC)AND A NEW DAWN
OF NIGER DELTA DEVELOPMENT
COMMISSION(NNDC)AND A NEW DAWN
by Hon Eseme Eyiboh
"IN EVERY DIFFICULTIES LIES OPPORTUNITY" Albert Einstern.
Our democracy has thrown up the emergence of quasi ethnic sentiments,
unbridled cultivation of poor national consciousness,weak institutions, poor
perception of government, deteriorating national values and insecurity. In
context, the present government's CHANGE MANTRA is intended as it were, to
jumpstart a new thinking with the recruitment of new national leadership with
lens to ignite our strength in diversity; trigger new opportunities founded on
ethical values, national integrity and to drive our development process.
Saturday 15 July 2017
Supreme Court judgement on PDP: Obi says it is victory for democracy
Chief Ben Obi, National Secretary, Caretaker Committee of the Peoples
Democratic Party (PDP) on Saturday described the Supreme Court judgment which
affirmed Ahmed Makarfi-led committee as “judgment for democracy and political
parties.”
Obi, who stated this in an interview with newsmen in Awka, said the
Supreme Court’s decision had put to rest any doubt about who was supreme in all
matters of the party.
“The truth of the matter is that, since the commencement of the crisis
that engulfed the party in May 2016, all the organs of the party had remained
with the caretaker committee that was set up by virtue of the party’s
Constitution at the convention.
“Attempting to usurp the Constitution is in futility; and graciously,
the Supreme Court judgment has re-affirmed that position in no unmistaken
terms,” he said.
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