Bayelsa Govt, ALGON unveil devt magazine

The Bayelsa Ministry of Local Government Administration and Bayelsa Chapter of Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) on Tuesday unveiled `The Grassroots Magazine’ to showcase developmental projects in rural communities.

Speaking at the public presentation of the tabloid in Bayelsa, Mrs Agatha Goma, the state Commissioner for Local Government Administration, said that the publication was conceived to publicise the peoples-oriented projects by state and local governments.

Ex-Militant leaders task NDDC on people-oriented projects

Ex-Niger Delta militants, under the auspices of Leadership, Peace and Cultural Development Initiative, have urged the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to embark on people-oriented projects in the region.

The group made the demand in a statement by its Press Secretary, Mr. F.O. Wainwei and made available to newsmen on Monday in Yenagoa.

Environmental Scientist disagrees with Shell on impact of oil leak on Bayelsa communities

Environmental Scientist disagrees with Shell on impact of oil leak on Bayelsa communities

 An Environmental Scientist, Ms Benita Siloko, has disagreed with Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) on the impact of the 550 barrels of crude discharged into Ogboinbiri river in 2015.

SPDC had on March 5, 2015, confirmed that an oil leak from its underwater line within its oil fields in Ogboinbiri, Bayelsa, discharged some 550 barrels of crude into Ogboinbiri River on Jan. 23, 2015.

Ijaw Youths Council wants Shell to shelve plans to move HQ out of Niger Delta

 The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) on Sunday urged Shell Companies in Nigeria to shelve plans to relocate its headquarters from Port Harcourt to Lagos or be prepared to move oil blocks it is occupying in the Niger Delta region as well.

The IYC in a statement issued in Yenagoa by its Spokesman, Mr Eric Omare noted that the plan negates the policies of the federal government encouraging investments in oil communities.

Niger Delta News Feeds: Navy pledges to intensify crackdown on oil theft i...

Niger Delta News Feeds: Navy pledges to intensify crackdown on oil theft i...: The Nigerian Navy on Saturday vowed to intensify its 'Operation River Sweep' in the Niger Delta in order to rid the region of c...

Navy pledges to intensify crackdown on oil theft in Niger Delta

The Nigerian Navy on Saturday vowed to intensify its 'Operation River Sweep' in the Niger Delta in order to rid the region of criminal elements within the maritime environment.

The Flag Officer Commanding, Central Naval Command, Rear Admiral Mohammed Garba, stated this during the command's medical outreach to Okunbiri community in Sagbama Local Government Area of the state.

''The Operation River Sweep (ORS) taking place in the region has been a success.

Bayelsa got N9.7 billion revenue in December – Dickson

Bayelsa got N9.7 billion revenue in December – Dickson

 Gov. Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa on Thursday declared that the State received N9.7 billion from the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) for the month of December, 2016.

Speaking with journalists on the allocation for the State from the FAAC, the governor explained in his breakdown that the state received N1.16 billion as statutory allocation.

He said that oil derivation revenue of 13 per cent amounted to N3.2 billion, Value Added Tax (VAT), N699 million and Petroleum Profit Tax, was N2.4 billion.

Bayelsa Govt sues Agip for N1.6 trn compensation for 2013 spill

Bayelsa Government has dragged Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC)  to a Federal High Court in Port Harcourt over an oil spillage from the company’s SBM Sirius, in Brass Local Government Area of the state.

The government has  filed an originating summon by the Bayelsa Attorney-General and Commissioner of Justice, Mr Kemeasuode Wodu.

According to the summons sighted  on Friday in Yenagoa, the state government demanded N1.6 trillion compensation..

The court papers indicate that the damage claim is for general and exemplary damages from the spill which occurred on November 27, 2013.

Shell says Seibou crude discharge of 550 barrels has no impact on Bayelsa communities

Shell says Seibou crude discharge of 550 barrels has no impact on Bayelsa communities

Two years after an underwater oil leak discharged some 550 barrels of crude into Ogboinbiri River in Bayelsa, Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) said the incident had no adverse impact.

SPDC had on March 5, 2015 confirmed that an oil leak from its underwater line within its oil fields in, Ogboinbiri, Bayelsa.

CLO, ERA petition House of Reps over influx of fishing trawlers into Bayelsa coastline

The Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO) and Environmental Rights Action (ERA) have petitioned the House of Representatives over the incursion of fishing trawlers into Bayelsa shoreline.

In a joint petition, the groups said that the operations of industrial trawlers near the coastline breached the laws.

They said that the petition was sequel to several complaints of damage to fishing nets and gear by the trawlers operating close to the shoreline which threatened the means of livelihood of local fishermen.

The petition was signed by Chief Nengi James, Bayelsa Chapter Chairman of CLO and Mr Alagoa Morris, Head of ERA Office in Bayelsa.

The organizations noted that the activities of the trawlers were threatening the traditional fishing occupation of the coastal dwellers which is protected by the Fisheries Act No. 108 of 1992.

According to the petition, the Fisheries Act stipulates that fishing trawlers should operate five nautical miles from the shore line reserved for artisanal fishermen.

The organizations appealed to the House to compel the trawler operators to comply with the Fisheries Act to avert conflict between the trawler operators and the traditional fishermen.

They said that the fishermen were looking up to the legislature to save their traditional vocation from extinction and called for urgent intervention to bring succour to the coastal dwellers.

Port Harcourt DISCO blames power outage on rainstorm

The Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHEDC), has blamed the current power outage affecting its network on the rainstorm that occurred on Monday.

A statement by PHEDC Spokesman, Mr John Onyi, made available in Yenagoa on Wednesday, said the rainstorm destroyed the company`s facilities.

80 year old Clericleads protest against alleged murder of his Boat Driver Son by Military

The family of a boat driver who died in a fatal shooting by  operatives of the Joint Military Task Force in the Niger Delta, Operation Delta Safe, has demanded justice, insisting he was innocent.

Mr. Boluozimo Tulagha, 39, died on January 13, 2017 from three shots allegedly fired by operatives at the waterfront of Polaku community in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa.

Military smashes militants’ camp kills 2 in Bayelsa following tip off from Palmwine tapper

 The Joint Military Force in the Niger Delta, Operation Delta Safe has raided a militants’ camp in the Bayelsa and killed two suspected militants in a gun duel following tip off from a palm wine tapper.

Community sources said that the palm wine tapper who plies his trade in Okodi community of Ogbia Local Government Area in Bayelsa sighted the militants from the tree top and informed the community leadership who alerted the military.

Imiringi community in Bayelsa commends NGO, media over advocacy

The Imiringi community in Bayelsa has commended an NGO, Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN), for campaigning against the laying of gas pipelines on the surface of the Kolo River by Shell Petroleum Development Company. 

Shell bows to community pressure, advocacy relocates gas pipeline across Kolo Creek underneath

Shell bows to community pressure, advocacy relocates gas pipeline across Kolo Creek underneath river The Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) has relocated its Kolo Creek-Soku gas pipeline across Kolo River in Bayelsa from the river surface to the river bed. 

NUJ, RATTAWU at Bayelsa Radio disrupt operations call for GM’s removal -

NUJ, RATTAWU at Bayelsa Radio disrupt operations call for GM’s removal - Ongoing labour dispute at Radio Bayelsa disrupted operations of the radio station on Thursday as two unions at the radio station held a protest blocking the entrance for several hours. The workers had threatened to shut down the station but timely intervention of state government officials who engaged union leaders in talks averted total shutdown. The station could not broadcast its news and current affairs programme ‘Hot Sea’ as the guest for the programme, Bayelsa Commandant of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency was locked out of the station premises. The station’s workforce urged Gov. Seriake Dickson to remove the General Manager of the radio station, Dr John Idumange. The workers, under the aegis of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), and Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union (RATTAWU), had organized a fasting and prayer session at the station before the protest. . It will be recalled that the moves by Idumange, who was appointed on Dec. 6, 2016, to re-position the station sparked off disagreement between members of the two unions and management. Following the disruption of the station’s programme, officials of Bayelsa government led by the Chief of Staff to Bayelsa Governor Mr Talford Ongolo came to the station to hold meetings with workers representatives. The Commissioner of Information also summoned the General Manager of the Station and union leaders to resolve th dispute, WHERETHErADIO Bayelsa chapter Chairman of NUJ, Mr Tonye Yemoleigha reportedly collapsedand rushed to the nearby Federal Medical Centre where he was revived and discharged. Yemoleigha confirmed the development and said that he has regainedhis health and was out of hospital to continue the struggle.. The workers expressed dismay that since assumption of office on Dec. 6, Idumange has yet to convene and preside over any management meeting to get proper briefing on issues before taking actions. In his reaction to the development, Idumange dismissed the allegations, accusing the unions of being used to sabotage his efforts to reposition the station. The general manager said that the workers were afraid of impending certificate verification insisting that there was no going back on the verification exercise as it was authorised by the supervising Ministry of Information. He said that anyone who did not participate in the exercise would be declared a ghost worker. “The exercise is not even my brainchild; in fact, my predecessor had compiled a list of over 200 workers for redeployment. “Those who wish to continue working here should participate or risk losing their jobs.’’ he warned. The general manager said that the senior officials affected by the ongoing reforms were using the unions to resist the reforms. Idumange explained that the exercise was targeted at ensuring that employees were placed in their fields of study, as well as to fish out those with fake certificates. “There is nothing like industrial disharmony. This small radio station has 346 workers; employment and job placement have never followed due process. “To correct those anomalies, we are commencing a certificate and staff verification which will last four days. “Most of those with fake certificates are afraid and they are creating a semblance of unrest. “They wrote to me to stop the exercise, but the Ministry of Information said the exercise must continue. “Those ghost workers must be fished out and the payroll cleaned up. “The wage bill of the station is N35 million monthly and it is not sustainable and my predecessor incurred a debt of N40 million. “The unions are being instigated by the Heads of Department affected in the illegal recruitment, and those who came into that place through the back door. “These include a situation where a family – father, mother and three children – are working in the station; it is unbelievable, but true,” Idumange said.

Pensioners commend PTAD on verification of retirees in Bayelsa

Pensioners commend PTAD on verification of retirees in Bayelsa Some Pensioners participating in the ongoing Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD), in Bayelsa have hailed the exercise in the state, describing it as “welcome development” to the system. A correspondent, who monitored the exercise in Yengoa, gathered that the verification scheduled for three days was for the federal civil service pensioners. The programme, according to PTAD officials who addressed the retirees was aimed at identifying genuine pensioners and those who had problems getting their monthly pensions. Mr Jonathan Ikputu, retired Chief Nursing Officer said that the conduct was so far smooth and called for the proper use of the finding. “It is good that this kind of programme is happening to rectify issues and challenges in the federal pension board; well, with what I have seen so far, I must say, that the exercise is good,” he said. Mr Japheth Taribio, a pensioner, who commended PTAD, said that the exercise was comparatively better than what were previously done. Taribio, who had also been captured, said that the programme was on the right track, adding that his face, finger print and documents were also documented. “The exercise is so far smooth and orderly but in all, there is need for improvement because taking care of the elderly people is not an easy task. “I heard that there is a medical team to cover the programme, I am happy about that because that shows that the government is prepared for the verification,” he said. Mrs Cynthia Fred-Boufini, the Deputy Director, Bayelsa State Emergency Medical Services, said that they were prepared to provide medical service cover for the programme, pointing out that there were medications in case the need arises. “Yes, we are ready, we have enough medical equipment that can take care of any emergencies or situations; we have government house clinic, where we can refer to any case that needed such attention. “For the pensioners, we advise them not to stress themselves; those on medication should ensure that they maintain the intake of their drug for the betterment of their health,” Boufini said. On the proper use of finding after the verification, Mr Ada Ugochukwu, Team Leader, Bayelsa Verification for Federal Civil Service Pensioners, assured that the exercise was to address challenges in the pension payroll. According to Ugochukwu, apart from identifying ghost pensioners and putting a stop to fraudulent payments, it would facilitate the restoration of monthly pension payments to genuine pensioners. “We are still calling on those who have not come out for the exercise to come with their all necessary documents, including original and photocopies of their relevant credentials for the exercise because we are going to be here for three days,” she said.

Bayelsa CLO berates Agip for flouting judgment on N30.5m spill compensational

Bayelsa CLO berates Agip for flouting judgment on N30.5m spill compensational The Bayelsa branch of the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO) on Thursday berated Nigeria Agip Oil Company (NAOC) for flouting several court judgments on spill compensation in its host community. CLO in a press conference addressed in Yenagoa by Chief Nengi James, State Chairman of the NGO in Bayelsa noted that the refusal of the oil firm to compensate the Azuzuama community in Bayelsa was an invitation to anarchy. James noted that it was regrettable that the communities impacted by four spill incidents deprived of N30. 5 million compensation in 2004 sought legal redress but yet to get justice after winning the case till Court of Appeal stage. The CLO noted that the community opted to channel its grievances through the law courts but the favourable judgments were yet to be enforced setting a dangerous precedent that might compel them to seek self help. Narrating the plight of Azuzuama community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, Mr Kelvin Ejelonu, Counsel to the Community noted that the community won the legal tussle at Federal High Court and Court of Appeal. “An action was filed against Agip at the Federal High Court in Yenagoa on May 22, 207 and on June 30, 2010 the court gave judgement against Agip and ordered them to pay the compensation sum with additional N3 million damages. “Though Agip appealed the judgment, on Agip’s application for stay of execution of the said judgment, the Federal High Court refused the said Application and ordered Agip to pay the said sum into the court. “But Agip refused to comply to the court order, the appeal filed by Agip was dismissed on April10, 2014 by the Court of Appeal, Port Harcourt Divisions, thereafter Garnishee proceedings to enforce the judgment was commenced,” Ejelonu said. He explained that Agip and its Bankers resisted the enforcement of the court judgments and approached the same court for a stay of execution which the court declined. He said that following further pressure from the community to enforce the judgment Agip’s bankers paid the judgment sum into Federal High Court Yenagoa but reversed the payment under guise of qn orders of Appeal court. He observed that neither Agip nor its bankers has shown the appeal court order on which it based the decision to revert the judgment debt earlier paid into court’s coffers. According to him, the Bayelsa Police Command had also commenced prosecution of Agip and its bankers but said that there were pressures from Police headquarters to withdraw the case already pending in court. Ejelonu noted that the connivance of NAOC and its bankers to evade justice was capable of eroding the confidence of other Niger Delta communities to be law abiding. He therefore urged the relevant agencies of government to preserve the rule of law and the sanctity of the judiciary and avoiding setting a negative precedent for other oil .communities in the Niger Delta region. He said that the community was resolute and were prepared to pursue the case to the apex court haven won up to Appeal court stage.

Military dismiss militant’s claims of pipeline attack in Niger Delta

Military dismiss militant’s claims of pipeline attack in Niger Delta The Joint Military Operation in Niger Delta, Operation Delta Safe, on Wednesday dismissed claims of responsibility by a militant group on a supposed explosion at an oil field in Ughelli, Delta. Lt.-Col. Olaolu Daudu, Spokesman of the Joint Task Force, said that the reports were frivolous and false as troops in the area reported no breach of the pipeline as claimed. He explained that the fire caused by residents who burnt bushes near the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) oil field was falsely presented as an attack by a faceless militant group. NPDC is a subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Development Company (NNPC). “The incidence that occurred was a fire-outbreak as a result of bush burning escalated by previous oil spill from one of the facilities of Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC). “The oilfield is located at Ekiugbo Afiesere and Inene Community in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta. “It should be noted that no pipeline was affected, neither was there any explosion. “The Joint Task Force Operation Delta Safe wishes to caution all from propagating discord and unsubstantiated stories in order to seek relevance and cause unnecessary tension, to desist from such practice. “They should rather be guided by national interest and security as they go about their professional duties,” Daudu said.

Bayelsa Radio workers call for GM’s removal

Two unions at the Bayelsa State Broadcasting Corporation, Yenagoa, on Monday urged Gov. Seriake Dickson to remove the General Manager of the radio station, Dr John Idumange. The workers, under the aegis of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), and Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union (RATTAWU), called for the general manager sack at their emergency congress in Yenagoa. Their resolution was jointly signed by Mr Tonye Yemoleigha, the Chairman, Radio Bayelsa chapel of NUJ and Mr Pius Otit, the Chairman, Radio Bayelsa chapter of RATTAWU. The moves by Idumange, who was appointed on Dec. 6, 2016, to re-position the station sparked off disagreement between members of the two unions and management. The unions said, “Following series of actions by Idumange, who was appointed barely a month ago, it remained clear that he lacked direction and needed leadership dexterity to effect any meaningful change. “The unions are deeply unhappy with the continuous arrest of members of staff by the police over alleged ‘misconduct’. “This was even after a peace meeting presided over by the Chief of Staff, Government House, Mr Talford Ongolo, on Jan. 10 at the Government House, Yenagoa. This is a breach of the peace accord. “At different times, the unions said they have requested that the general manager should reverse the appointment of junior staff over and above their superiors. “The unions had equally sought audience with him to discuss pressing issues in order to resolve brewing industrial unrest and rising disharmony and disaffection among workers as a result of his actions. “But, he tacitly declined.” The workers expressed dismay that since assumption of office on Dec. 6, Idumange has yet to convene and preside over any management meeting to get proper briefing on issues before taking actions. In his reactions, Idumange dismissed the allegations, accusing the unions of being used to sabotage his efforts to reposition the station. The general manager told NAN that there was no going back on the verification exercise as it was authorised by the supervising Ministry of Information. He said that anyone who did not participate in the exercise would be declared a ghost worker. “The exercise is not even my brainchild; in fact, my predecessor had compiled a list of over 200 workers for redeployment. “Those who wish to continue working here should participate or risk losing their jobs.’’ he warned. The general manager said that the senior officials affected by the ongoing reforms were using the unions to resist the reforms. Idumange explained that the exercise was targeted at ensuring that employees were placed in their fields of study, as well as to fish out those with fake certificates. “There is nothing like industrial disharmony. This small radio station has 346 workers; employment and job placement have never followed due process. “To correct those anomalies, we are commencing a certificate and staff verification which will last four days. “Most of those with fake certificates are afraid and they are creating a semblance of unrest. “They wrote to me to stop the exercise, but the Ministry of Information said the exercise must continue. “Those ghost workers must be fished out and the payroll cleaned up. “The wage bill of the station is N35 million monthly and it is not sustainable and my predecessor incurred a debt of N40 million. “The unions are being instigated by the Heads of Department affected in the illegal recruitment, and those who came into that place through the back door. “These include a situation where a family – father, mother and three children are working in the station; it is unbelievable, but true,” Idumange said.

Bayelsa Govt. seeks FG’s assistance on ravaging ecological challenges -

Bayelsa Govt. seeks FG’s assistance on ravaging ecological challenges - The Bayelsa Government has appealed to the Federal Ministry of Environment and other well-meaning organisations to join its efforts at combating ecological disasters ravaging the state. The disasters include landslide, coastal erosion and other environmental disasters. Chief John Jonah, Deputy Governor of Bayelsa made the appeal on Thursday while speaking with newsmen shortly after inspecting a landslide site at Okoloba Community in the Kolokuma/Opokuma local government area of the state. Lamenting the loss of houses and other valuable properties to the disaster, Jonah urged the Federal Government to participate more in the protection of the Bayelsa environment. He noted that the ecosystem in Bayelsa has suffered serious degradation owing to erosion and oil exploration activities. According to the deputy governor, several communities in the state, including Koluama, which had been washed away by ocean surge and coastal erosion are now in their new settlements. “There are lots of erosion sites in Bayelsa State; this is just one of them. We have been reporting about how the ocean surge has been washing off our communities including Koluama. “There is need for the Federal Ministry of Environment to look into Bayelsa case more seriously now with this wake-up call that we have got today. “We shall inform the Federal Government on the need for them to participate more effectively in the protection of our environment.” Jonah said. He sympathised with the victims, saying that government would do everything within its reach to provide them with some temporary relief, while proffering long-standing solutions to the problem. Jonah, however, used the opportunity to caution people of the state to be more safety conscious and take proactive measures by avoiding development of houses and other facilities in areas that are prone to natural disasters. On the issue of providing shoreline protection for the community, the deputy governor said: “I understand there is a record that, the government had planned to provide shore protection here. “We will look at that and see where the plan stalled and put pressure as much as we can to see that that project comes back to lime-light.” Giving eyewitness accounts, some of the victims who are indigenes of Okoloba community, Mr. Titus Yeigbagha and Chief Imomoemi Officer said, the incident occurred thrice at about 8am, 1pm and 6pm respectively on Monday. Yeigbagha, who lamented that property worth millions of naira, including six houses were wiped off by the slide, called on the government to come to the aid of the victims and the community by providing shoreline protection for the area. Also speaking, the Governor’s Special Representative in Kolokuma/Opokuma local government area, Mr Iselema Gbaranbiri recounted a similar incident that occurred in the community in 2008, 2013 and 2015 and appealed for the urgent attention of the government. The deputy governor was accompanied on the visit by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Jonathan Obuebite, his Budget and Planning counterpart, Mr Joshua Ongore. Others are Chief of Staff, Government House, Mr Talford Ongolo and Chairman of the Bayelsa State Emergency Management Agency, (BYSEMA), Dr. Zedekiah Izu.

Bayelsa NSCDC honours 5 officers for outstanding performance in 2016

Bayelsa NSCDC honours 5 officers for outstanding performance in 2016 The Bayelsa Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) on Thursday honoured five of its officers who performed their duties creditably in 2016. Speaking at the ceremony at the headquarters of the Command in Yenagoa, the State Commandant, Mr Desmond Agu, said the officers were recognised for their resilience and dedication to duty during the year under review. Those honoured are: Mr George Washington, Mrs Becky Ayinka, Mr Brown Akpama, Mr Elliot Manasu and Mr Eniye Ali. The recipients of the award were presented with generators, household appliances and cash gifts. Agu attributed the success of the command in the out gone year to the loyalty, commitment and hard work of men of the command. He said that the NSCDC was one of the agencies at the forefront of protecting critical national assets. He further said that the command was able to tackle the menace of illegal bunkering, pipeline vandalism and other forms of criminal activities within its operational area. Agu, who described the award ceremony as an annual ritual, said the event was being organised to spur up excellent performance amongst officers and men of the command. He warned pipeline vandals, illegal oil thieves and other criminals to desist from their illicit activities in the state. In a goodwill massage, the Special Adviser to the Governor of Bayelsa on Security Matters, Chief Spero Jack, who chaired the occasion, described the NSCDC as a blessing to Bayelsa and Nigeria. He commended the corps for going after vandals and creating safety for the people, adding that, “your personnel have paid the supreme price for the national interest”.

Bayelsa Govt wades into labour crisis at its radio station

Bayelsa Govt wades into labour crisis at its radio station The Bayelsa Government has waded into the industrial crisis over certificate verification at Radio Bayelsa ordered by the new general manager for the station. The workers of Radio Bayelsa on Monday shunned the certificate verification exercise ordered by the General Manager, Dr John Idumange. Mr John Angese, Chairman, Bayelsa Council of Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), said on Wednesday that the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr Talford Ongolo, convened a meeting to resolve the conflict. The workers had issued a seven-day ultimatum which would lapse on Jan. 10 to the station’s general manager to suspend the certificate verification and restore industrial harmony. The workers, under the aegis of the NUJ and the Radio and Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union (RATTAWU), resolved to shun the certificate verification after a joint congress of RATTAWU and NUJ. Angese said the meeting, held at Bayelsa Government House on Tuesday, was attended by the general manager of the station, representatives of NUJ and RATTAWU, Information Commissioner, Mr Jonathan Obuebite, among others. He said the meeting resolved to suspend the verification, while the new general manager was urged to convene a meeting to resolve contentious issues with staff. “We had a tense meeting at the Government House presided over by the Chief of Staff, they asked us to go back and work together with a six-point resolution which includes that the general manager should hold meetings with staff. “That the verification should be suspended till the meeting with staff was held, while NUJ and RATTAWU should each have a nominee to conduct the certificate verification. “The general manager was also asked to review appointments of junior officers above their superiors in breach of Public Service Rules,” Angese said. Meanwhile, Mr Tonye Yemoleigha and Pius Otiti, Radio Bayelsa Chapel Chairmen of NUJ and RATTAWU, respectively in a joint statement urged the workforce to accept the outcome of the peace talks. The unions urged the workers to remain dedicated to duty, and assured them that their collective interest and welfare would be protected.

2017 Budget: Ijaw Youths Council wants strategy to ensure adequate oil output

2017 Budget: Ijaw Youths Council wants strategy to ensure adequate oil output The Ijaw Youths Council (IYC) on Tuesday, advised the Federal Government to evolve a strategy to stabilise the Niger Delta region to produce enough oil to fund the 2017 budget. Mr Udengs Eradiri, President of IYC, made the call in an interview with journalists in Yenagoa, Bayelsa capital. He said that with delays in the Niger Delta peace process, chances of meeting the projected oil productions were slim. “The Niger Delta region does not expect the present administration to solve the Niger Delta problems which has lingered for over 50 years in one fail swoop overnight. “However, over the years, successive administrations devised strategies to ensure oil output to run the country. “From all indications, and despite the hue and cry about economic diversification, the 2017 budget is premised on oil output and we urge the government to provide a road map to achieving the benchmark on paper. “The Obasanjo administration started coastal meetings, the late Musa Yaradua used the amnesty scheme to achieve stable oil production and Goodluck Jonathan consolidated the amnesty scheme that is winding up. “We want the present administration to come up with a plan to ensure steady oil output in the short term; while efforts are made to address the developmental challenges of the people in the long run,” Eradiri said. He said that the interventionist agencies set up to fast-track development of the region were being deployed by previous governments for political patronages and settlement. He pledged that IYC would closely follow developments in the Niger Delta Development Commission. Eradiri challenged the Niger Delta governors to toe the line of their predecessors and drive the development of the region from the proceeds of the derivation funds. He further said that it was former governors of the region that did the groundwork for the amnesty programme. The IYC boss said that the Niger Delta region was in dire need of economic policies to put it on the track of development. He urged the Federal Government to extend the probe to Malabu oil block deal cover other oil blocks. =============

NUJ, RATTAWU in Radio Bayelsa shun scheduled certificate verification

NUJ, RATTAWU in Radio Bayelsa shun scheduled certificate verification The workers of Radio Bayelsa on Monday shunned the certificate verification exercise ordered by a newly-appointed General Manager of the station, Dr John Idumange, scheduled to commence on Monday. The workers had issued a seven-day ultimatum which would lapse on January 10, to the station’s General Manager, to speedily resolve the outstanding labour crisis and restore industrial harmony. A correspondent who visited the station reports that the exercise did not take off as the workers rather attended a joint congress of the two unions in the radio station. The workers, under the aegis of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and the Radio and Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union (RATTAWU), resolved to shun the certificate verification after a joint congress of the unions. More than 200 staff of the radio station christened Glory FM, attended the joint congress of NUJ and RATTAWU at the station’s premises in Yenagoa. The meeting was presided over by the Bayelsa Chairman of NUJ, Mr John Angase, and Bayelsa Chairman of RATTAWU, Mr David Emiebi. The unions urged the management to suspend the verification exercise within the next 48 hours or face industrial action, adding that failure to convene a meeting to resolve contentious issues with staff would compel the workforce to down tools. Addressing the workers, Angase said that the unions had made several unsuccessful efforts to mediate between the Radio Bayelsa chapters of the NUJ and RATTAWU, and the management of the station. “The certificate verification slated to commence on Jan. 9, should be suspended pending a meeting with members of staff to resolve the contentious issues causing industrial disharmony. “We are not in any way opposed to certificate verification, but we do believe that due process should be followed and the processes should be discussed with the unions. “We want the new general manager to address the workers and unfold his plans for the station. “We, therefore, urge every worker to boycott the exercise, pending when the general manager sees the need to meet with workers to iron things out,’’ Angase said. The unions also alleged that the general manager had breached public service rules by compelling senior officers to take directives from their juniors. They said that there were established procedures within the public service to deal with cases of incompetence and misconduct, as the sanctions spelt out for such offences were clear. In his reaction, the general manager dismissed the allegations, accusing the unions of being used to sabotage efforts to reposition the station. Idumange said on Monday that there was no going back on the verification exercise as it was authorised by the supervising ministry of information and anyone who decides not to participate would be declared a ghost worker. “The exercise is not even my brainchild; in fact, my predecessor had compiled a list of over 200 workers for redeployment. Those who wish to continue working here should participate or risk losing their jobs. He said that the senior officials affected by the ongoing reforms were using the unions to resist the reforms. Idumange explained that the exercise was targeted at ensuring that employees were placed in their fields of study, as well as to fish out those with fake certificates. “There is nothing like industrial disharmony. This small radio station has 346 workers; employment and job placement have never followed due process. “To correct those anomalies, we are commencing a certificate and staff verification which will last for four days. “Most of those with fake certificates are afraid and they are creating a semblance of unrest. “They wrote to me to stop the exercise, but the Ministry of Information said the exercise must continue. “Those ghost workers must be fished out and the payroll cleaned up; the wage bill of the station is N35 million monthly and it is not sustainable and my predecessor incurred a debt of N40 million, which I will battle to clear. “The unions are being instigated by the Heads of Department affected in the illegal recruitment, and those who came into that place through the back door. “These include a situation where a family — father, mother and three children — are working in the station; it is unbelievable, but true,” Idumange added.

Nembe Chiefs’ council inaugurates new exco

The Nembe Chiefs Council in Bayelsa on Thursday inaugurated a 15-member executive committee to pilot its affairs for the next two years. Chief Walter Aye Feghabo-Amain, a former military administrator of Ebonyi and Delta states emerged the new Alternate-Chairman of the council. Feghabo-Amain’s nomination was announced by the monarch of Nembe Kingdom, King Edmund Dakoru, Amanayabo of Nembe, at the end-of-year meeting of the chiefs at Mingi’s palace in Nembe. Feghabo-Amain will be assisted by a 14-member executive council. In his speech, Dakoru commended the federal and Bayelsa governments as well as companies operating in the area for the progress in Nembe Kingdom. He said that the construction of a road to Nembe and internal roads had facilitated the movement of goods and services, making life easier for the people. Dakoru commended security agencies in the state and the people of Nembe for the peace in the kingdom. The monarch challenged the people of Nembe to capitalise on the situation by engaging in lawful commercial activities to boost the economy of the state and the kingdom. Other members of the council include Chief A. Ekigha-Iweka (Vice Chairman), Chief Emmanuel Ikurite (Secretary), Chief Inatimi-Yemanain (Treasurer), Chief William Inbiyaibugo (Legal Liaison Officer) and Chief Biterefie Peresuo (Auditor). Others are Chief Beinmote Egi-Dani (Financial Secretary), Chief Nathan Ologo (Publicity Secretary), Chief T. D. Ilegimokuma (Assistant Secretary), Chief Inemiegha Inemiegha (Provost 1) and Chief Lucky Obiene Oru-Bokolo (Provost 2). Chief Omolo Tengi, Chief Baratuapire Adongoi-Oruwari and Chief Nengi Eriworio are to serve as ex-officio members.

Police confirm death of 2 by bandits in Yenagoa

The police in Bayelsa on Thursday confirmed that two persons were killed on Tuesday by a gang of gunmen at the popular Swali Market in Yenagoa. It was gathered that the incident occurred at about 4 p.m., causing traders and their customers to run in different directions. DSP Asinim Buswat, Police Public Relations Officer, Bayelsa Command, confirmed the incident to NAN in Yenagoa . Butswat said that “four gunmen with pistol attacked one Raymond Agada in Swali Community”. He said the hoodlums killed two persons and snatched N120,000 from one of their victims. “Policemen were quickly dispatched to the scene and the victim was rushed to the hospital, where he later died. “The culprits have been identified and efforts have been intensified to arrest them,” Butswat said. Eye witnesses said the hoodlums operated with sophisticated weapons and other dangerous objects. One of the victims who died on the spot was said to be carrying a large chunk of money he was taking to the bank. Hoodlums carted away items from shops in the market after the shop owners fled in the wake of the pandemonium. It was learnt that a team of policemen that arrived at the market following a distress call arrested one of the suspects.

Primary school teachers in Bayelsa cry out over non-payment of 4 months salary arrears

Teachers in public schools under the auspices of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) in Bayelsa on Friday appealed to Gov. Seriake Dickson to facilitate the payment of their outstanding salary arrears. They made the appeal in a seven-point communique signed jointly by Mr John Toinpre Kala-Ama, the state’s NUT Chairman, Mr Johnson Hector, Principal Secretary, and Akanyo Timi, Publicity Secretary. The teachers urged Dickson to prevail on local government council authorities to pay the backlog of four months salaries owed primary school teachers in the state. The state government , they said, should assume its constitutional collaborative responsibility of augmenting the funding and management of the primary school system through the Universal Basic Education Programme. The teachers also appealed to the state and local governments to quickly address the issues of payment of imprest to headmasters and equitable distribution of instructional materials for functional academic work. Other problems, they stated, included acute shortage of teachers as well as non-implementation of promotion and annual increment for primary school teachers among others. They demanded that the NUT be also represented in the State Education Committee as directed by the government. The teachers also threatened to commence their suspended strike if their demands were not met. It would be recalled that the 2016/2017 academic session was delayed for one month following a strike by the NUT over outstanding salaries. The teachers shifted ground and suspended the strike following pledges by the government to prioritise payment of teachers’ salaries. The communique was issued following an emergency meeting of the state wing of the union at the Teachers House in Yenagoa.

Navy extends free medical services to Bayelsa rural communities

The Central Naval Command (CNC) on Saturday said it would focus its monthly medical outreach on rural coastal communities in Bayelsa. The service disclosed this in Sabagreia, saying the effort was part of its effort to promote cordial relationship with its host communities. A medical team comprising doctors, pharmacists, ophthalmologists and other medical personnel provided a full day service at Sabagreia community in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area. Speaking at the occasion, Rear Admiral Mohammed Garba, Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), CNC, said that the emphasis on rural communities was due to obvious lack of access to health services in the area. Garba said the Command remained committed to building cordial relationships with host communities by providing humanitarian services to them. The FOC also said that the Command had visited more than seven communities in the state, adding that the exercise was equally carried out in other states under the CNC. He urged the people to support the Navy in its efforts to check oil theft and prevent sabotage on oil installations and crude oil bearing pipelines within their communities. Chief Geoffrey Yanga, a retired Rear Admiral, who hails from the area, urged the people to desist from oil theft and pipeline vandalism as this often resulted to self-inflicted adverse consequences. He noted that the military’s support to host communities by rendering medical services to them was commendable. Yanga urged the people to embrace peace and always give useful information to the Navy so as to secure the waterways and rid them of criminalities. Chief Bokumo Orukari, traditional ruler of Sabagreia community, lauded the Navy for the gesture and noted that it was the first of such programme during his reign in the area. Orukari pledged the cooperation and support of the community to the Navy units operating to secure oil facilities and the coastal communities. He appealed to the Navy to establish a military check point at the tip/cape of Wilberforce Island to check criminal activities there.

Ijaw Professionals seek accountability on oil revenues spending

The Ijaw Professionals Association (IPA) on Friday called on communities to intensify the demand for transparent and accountable spending of the 13 per cent oil derivation for Bayelsa. This is contained in a communiqué signed by Mr Iniruo Wills, President, Homeland Chapter of the association, after its meeting in Yenagoa. The pan-Ijaw professional group said it was now prepared to put pressure on the state in its fight against the alleged misuse of the special oil revenues. “Ijaw nation must localise its agitation and cause the states and local governments to become transparent and accountable in the spending of these funds. “We shall intensify this fight locally while we also put pressure on the Federal Government for more equitable allocation,’’ Wills said. Wills said the association was seeking greater involvement of the Federal Government in the development of the Niger Delta region. He said the group was of the position that the governments could use revenues from oil being the only primary source of development to touch the lives of the people. The group further said that the funds must be strategically and properly deployed to assuage the developmental needs of the people. On the preservation of the environment, the group said it would direct its legal and social enforcement actions in that regards. Wills said the group required NNPC and the federal government, who held about 60 per cent stake in the oil and gas businesses in Ijaw lands, to step up their actions against oil spillages. “We are also calling on the regulators like the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Federal Ministry of Environment, Department of Petroleum Resources, and others to stop gas flaring and pollution of the environment. “We will also engage the anti graft agencies to account for the number of convictions as it concerns pipeline vandalism and the diversion of funds meant for host communities from international oil companies,’’ he said. On the independence of local governments, the body maintained that a virile local government system would bring about speedy development. “Ijaw people have agreed to lead the charge to remove local governments from the grip of state governors. “It is also our position that the state and local governments in Ijaw land should settle all unpaid salaries and urgently put an end to the strange and unacceptable practice of owing workers’ salaries. “We also call for the historical account of all loans, repayments and what those funds were used for by respective state governments in Ijaw land from 1999 till date,’’ Wills said. Also present at the meeting were Mr Alaere Raine, Vice President; Mrs Meg Agidee, Treasurer, and Mr Abiye Nyanabo, the Assistant Secretary.

NDLEA in Bayelsa arrests 215 drug suspects in 2016

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Bayelsa says it arrested 215 suspected drug traffickers in 2016. A statement signed by Mr Osakwe Ikenna, Principal Staff Officer, Public Affairs, in Yenagoa on Friday, said it seized 219.9 kgs of various illicit drugs in 2016. Ikenna said that 164 were male while 51 were female, adding that the agency secured 19 convictions, rehabilitated 149 drug dependence people. “At present, two residential clients, are still undergoing rehabilitation,” he said. He said the agency in collaboration with various groups, communities and associations also carried out far-reaching public enlightenment. Ikenna said the agency in the last quarter of 2016 arrested 39 suspects and seized 52.9 kgs of various illicit drugs. He said that during the last quarter, the NDLEA operatives apprehended several drug dealers on the command’s watch-list. He said the suspects; include a notorious baron, who was arrested on Nov. 12 with 20 kgs of dried weeds suspected to be Cannabis Sativa recovered from his warehouse in Yenagoa. He said the suspected baron’s storekeeper and carrier were also arrested. Ikenna reiterated that NDLEA would continue to fish out unrepentant drug barons, who destroy the lives of unsuspecting youths and foster criminality and insecurity in the society. The spokesman appealed to communities to support the agency by providing relevant and accurate information on drug dealers in their areas. “We counsel all residents to celebrate the festivities by abstaining from all illicit substances. “We also encourage parents to listen to their children, give them moral and psychological support to prevent them from being lured into the use of illicit drugs by their peers.”

New Year: Dickson salutes Bayelsa people pledges to reposition for economic growth

New Year: Dickson salutes Bayelsa people pledges to reposition for economic growth Gov Seriake Dickson has applauded Bayesapeople for the support and encouragement to his administration. The Governor, who stated this in his new message issued by his Chief Presss Secretary Mr Daniel Iworiso-Markson on Sunday in Yenagoa. Dickson attributed the achievements of his administration to the divine grace of God and the massive support and love of Bayelsa people. . Dickson also expressed his appreciation to the entire workforce of the state for their extreme show of understanding of the difficult times, especially with dwindling resources of the state.. He challenged and encouraged organised labour and the entire people of the state to continue to work with the government, even in this new yea/ Dickson reiterated that the government is determined to embark on reforms to put the state in proper stead for greater efficiency in all sectors of the economy. The governor highlighted some of the achievements of the administration, despite the harsh realities to include, the massive rehabilitation of infrastructure. He said that massive gains wer made in education, health, agriculture, the three senatorial roads and others that have been completed or attained appreciable levels of completion. Dickson also restated the commitment to diversify the economy of the state, away from the present dependence on oil and gas. He pointed out that with the state’s International Cargo Airport, expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2017, efforts at bringing the state closer to becoming an economic hub will be realised. According to him, while the intentions of the government are geared towards turning around the fortunes of the state, they will also need the support of all and sundry to achieve the set objectives.