NYSC editorial and publicity CDS group holds seminar on hygiene for staffs of Gwake table water

BY

KELVIN OHOROR

Corps members of the Editorial and Publicity Community Development Service group of Isoko North recently organized a sensitization seminar on hygiene for staffs of Segwake Compnay Ltd., producers of Gwake Table Water at the company yard, Ozoro.

Speaking at the seminar a corps member Osaroejor Sarah asserted that, hygiene is the process of keeping your living and working areas clean in order to prevent illness and disease, noting that hygiene should be the focus point for staffs and management of Segwake Company Ltd.

According to her, water is very vital for every individual, that 95 percent of our daily activities involves the use of water. As staffs of Gwake Table Water the life of so many citizens rest in your hands, you must process and purify your water and make it suitable for citizens to use it.

Editorial and Publicity CDS Group, Isoko North With Management and Staff of Gwake table water in a Group Photograph

She noted that, sometime ago they have heard of people who died as a result of drinking contaminated water, Stressing that this is the reason for the advancement in the processing and packaging of water, and despite this fact the problem of bad water still persist in the society.

She therefore urged management and staffs of Gwake Table Water to wash their tank once a week and ensure proper purification and better packaging of the water in order to help the citizens that consume the water.

Meanwhile corps members Ponmile Pelumi Olamide who also spoke at the seminar noted that, the water tank used in the purification and processing of water should be washed constantly and gave reason why some people prefer Eva table water is as a result of the name they have made over the years, urging the staffs and management of Gwake Table Water to take hygiene as their responsibility and put up their best in the production of their water.

The Managing Director of Sagwake Compnay Ltd., producers of Gwake Table Water Barr. Oghenero A. Agwae who spoke to our correspondent asserted that, “The Seminar is a good one, and useful to the organization, in terms of enlightenment and believing that  there is need for training and re-training of workers from time to time, their coming for this seminar is very useful to us”, he noted.

He further reiterated that, as many that are going for Eva Water is not because they have gone  to the factory or to confirm their method of production ,but  they are just carried away by the name. Because the water is being manufactured by a multi-national company

He said, “I will also draw your attention to the fact that I am a father and I have very tender children, we consume only Gwake Table Water, every table water that is produce here, I take it as if I am the one consuming it, I am interested in the quality that is put to it. There is no doubt a business want to make profit, but our primary concern is the health and well being of the citizens”.

Barr. Agwae therefore assured the corps members that Gwake Table Water will ensure good hygiene and standard will be maintain at all times. Noting that, they are certified by NAFDAC even though NAFDAC will not always be here but maintaining  good hygiene will be paramount for the company.

Barr. Agwae also said that, Gwake Table Water is doing well within the neighborhood and beyond that the product is a brand name to reckon with and advice consumer  of Gwake Table Water either sachet or table water to stick to the product.

He therefore appreciate the Editorial and Publicity Community Development Service Corps Members for the seminar on hygiene.

Nigeria leads the world in uneducated children

Nigeria leads the world in uneducated children, according to the country’s government. Adamu Hussaini, Nigeria’s Education Ministry permanent secretary, said in a statement to BBC news on Tuesday that he was “sad to note” that some 10.5 million children living in the country were not currently in school.
Hussaini blamed the severe number of uneducated children in Nigeria on cultural factors, including traditions and religions followed by various nomadic groups that prevented girls from attending school. The majority of children who aren’t in school in Nigeria are girls.
Hussaini also said the high number of kids living on the streets was a factor in poor education rates across the country. Only 5 percent of the primary school–aged kids in Nigeria are dropouts, while about three-quarters of those who aren’t receiving education are likely to never even step foot inside of a classroom.

kid-uneducated

However, the biggest cause of the lack of education across the country may be limited funding for public schools. In 2016, only 9 percent of Nigeria’s $12.2 trillion federal budget was spent on education, according to All Africa. The majority of the funding that went toward schooling was spent on education ministries, teacher recruitment efforts and salaries. Just a week before Hussaini acknowledged the widespread lack of education in Nigeria, marking the first time a senior official ever admitted to the scope of the problem, education activist Malala Yousafzai pleaded for President Yemi Osinbajo to call an “education state of emergency.” Yousafzai met with the president and schoolchildren at a displaced family camp on July 18 and advocated for the government to dedicate more funding toward schooling for girls. “Nigeria is the richest country in Africa but has more girls out of school than any country in the world,” Yousafzai said. “Studies are clear—educating girls grows economies, reduces conflict and improves public health. For these girls and for their country’s future, Nigeria’s leaders must immediately prioritize education.”
Nearly 60 percent of the children who aren’t receiving education live in the northern areas of the country. In the northeast alone, where the country is being ravaged by the militant Islamist group Boko Haram, some 3 million children do not have access to education. Since the group’s insurgency in 2009, more than 2,285 teachers have been killed, while 19,000 others have been displaced, according to UNICEF. The group also has destroyed more than 1,400 schools since the insurgency began.

Edo state to collaborate with N’Delta power company to boost industrial activities

The Edo State Government is set to seal a partnership deal with the Niger Delta Power Holding Company, NDPHC, on bulk power supply to boost industrial activities in the state.
The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki disclosed this when he received the management team of the NDPHC who paid him a business visit yesterday in Benin City.
Obaseki said he was optimistic that about 2,000 Mega Watts of power could be generated from the power plants in the state in the next few years.
He explained that what was of immense concern to him was the utilisation of the power that would be generated from the power plants in the state, and added that his administration intends to make the Sapele road axis an industrial site and an electricity generating corridor.
‘’Now that we have found electricity, what are we going to do with it? Is there no opportunity for us to think of working with you directly?”

Edo-Industrialisation

‘How we can bring in people who will buy bulk power and distribute it close to our people who will use it for production purpose.
Earlier, the Managing Director/ CEO of NDPHC, Mr. Chinedu Ugbo said Edo was a major stakeholder in power generation.
He disclosed that Obaseki is on the new board to be inaugurated by the Company soon, adding that the visit was to strengthen areas of collaboration.
He said that the company had planned seeking the state approval for the bulk power supply arrangement, and expressed delight at the governor’s support which has opened the way for more opportunities.
‘’Edo is host to one of the big plants which is located along the Benin by-pass” Ugbo said, and commended the host community for their cooperation in ensuring a peaceful business environment.
He listed some of the challenges affecting the company in the state as irregular gas supply and electricity uptake which affect electricity distribution to consumers.

Establishment of PwDs: another milestone in the implementation of delta Job creation programme- Eboh

By Owho Warri

Another set of Persons Living with Disabilities (PwDs) have received starter packs to establish their enterprises by the Delta State Government through its job creation programmes.

The benefitting 28 PwDs who were trained in Fish Production, Catering & Confectionery and in Craft/Home Care Products Production brought to an end the batch trained for three months.

So far, 50 PwDs have been engaged with 14 persons in the first set, 28 currently set up while 8 persons are still on six months training to round off at the end of the month. They include the visually impaired, deaf and dumb, lame and ex-lepers.

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa represented by the Chief Job Creation Officer, Prof Eric Eboh, reiterated the State Government’s commitment to the welfare of PwDs in the state, stressing that training and establishing them in their choice enterprises is another milestone in the implementation of the job creation programmes.

COMM FOR WOMEN AFFAIRS, REV  OMATSOLA WILLIAMS PRESENTS STARTER PACK TO A PwD

Prof Eboh said the Office of the Chief Job Creation Officer collaborated with the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community and Social Development to engage them giving credence to all-inclusive vision of all categories of Deltans in the programme by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.

He said the State Government has made available to them full-package starter packs, cash allowances and a monthly stipend for three months to enable them to succeed in their chosen enterprises.

According to him, “today marks the end of training for those in three months training; those in six months training will round off their training at the end of the month. You are eligible to receive your starter packs because you completed your training.”

“Today is indeed important to us because this event speaks volume about the all-inclusive governance of this administration. It is on record that before now, persons living with disabilities were not given adequate attention in Government programmes. It is a thing of joy that we have been able to put smiles on the faces of the physically challenged.”

While congratulating them, he charged them to work hard in order to become successful managers, entrepreneurs and employers of labour.

Also, the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs, Rev (Mrs) Omatsola Williams lauded the State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, for keeping to his campaign promises of prosperity for all Deltans.

Rev Williams advised them not to sell their starter packs, but to put them into good use so as to become self-reliant and contribute their quota to the development of the state.

“Government has played his part, go and play yours. We shall continue to monitor and mentor you after you establish your businesses. Do not sell your starter packs and shun laziness,” she emphasized.

Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Tariye Anderson (Patani LGA) and Deborah Ojagbegure (Sapele LGA) expressed their gratitude to the State Government for the training and empowerment, pledging to put them into good use. 

Three policemen dismissed for extorting N200,000 from suspected ‘yahoo boys’

·        As the Nigeria Police Force attempts to rebuild its image, three police officers of the Lagos State Command have been dismissed.
The action was taken in a case of illegal arrest and extortion reported three weeks ago by an unnamed Nigerian using the popular social-messaging service, Whats App.
A statement by Assistant Commissioner Of Police Abayomi Shogunle of the Public Complaint Rapid Response Unit (PCRRU) in Abuja said the dismissal followed an internal trial at which the men were found guilty, under the Police Act, of corrupt practices and discreditable conduct.
In a major image-makeover effort, the PCRRU is sending to the public such messages as: “Remember, Bail is Free, PCRRU says NO TO IMPUNITY and our quick response will put a smile on your face.”
The dismissed officers are: Inspector Okelue Nkemeonye, Sgt. Braimoh Sunday and Sgt. Yusuf Olukoga, met their fate after the complaint was filed on June 21. Their lead officer, ASP Bayo Obadiah, received an official query and his case is being sorted out.

Three Policemen Dismissed For Extoring N200,000 from suspected 'yahoo Boys'

In his message to the PCRRU, the complainant told the horrendous story of how he was abducted by a team of policemen that morning as he came out of a bank to transact business. Held all day until about 6 p.m., not only was he beaten by the policemen, they used his ATM to withdraw money from his account, and transferred money into another account provided by one of them.
According to ACP Shogunle, “Upon the receipt of the complaint, a case with Tracking Number PCRRU637624 was registered and acknowledgment of complaint sent to the complainant. PCRRU Investigation team was dispatched to Ikorodu where all the three dismissed policemen including AP No. 98199 ASP Bayo Obadia who led the team were apprehended. PCRRU preliminary investigation reveals that all the allegations contained in the WhatsApp message actually happened.”
In addition, he said the four police officers who were armed on the day of the incident had falsely paraded themselves as operatives of Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) despite not being posted to SARS by police authorities.
Investigation also showed that the officers extorted a total sum of N200,000 from the young men whom they tagged “Yahoo Yahoo Boys,” the money forcibly taken from them via an N90,000 ATM withdrawal and another N110,000 mobile bank money transfer to a third-party account provided by the policemen, ACP Shogunle continued, adding the extorted N200,000 was recovered by the PCRRU Investigators.
“All the arrested officers, witnesses and recovered exhibits including the N200,000 cash and printed bank statement of account were handed over to the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 2 Lagos for further detailed investigation and necessary disciplinary measures,” he said. “The approval of the punishment of dismissal from service as recommended by the Adjudicating officer is part of the outcome of the disciplinary measures.”
With reference to ASP Bayo Obadiah “who led the team of the infamous men on this unacceptable conduct,” he pointed out that an official query was issued to him by the AIG Zone 2 Lagos, and that both his reply and that query have been forwarded to the office of the Force Secretary in Abuja from where it will go to the Police Service Commission as required by Police Regulations.
“The Inspector General of Police, IGP Ibrahim K. Idris, has commended the complainant for coming forward to report the incident to PCRRU, the IGP has also said that all allegations of professional misconduct reported against any police officer would be treated in line with relevant laws and in keeping to the ‘Change Begins With Me Campaign’ of the Federal Government,” Shogunle noted.
He encouraged the public to report cases of police misconduct to the PCRRU for resolution, stressing that the IGP Idris led administration is bent on ensuring a more public friendly and corrupt free police force in Nigeria.

Association of Nigerian authors South-South Zone holds delegates conference.

* Appoints Ekele as South-South Zonal Chairman

By Kelvin Ohoror

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) South-South Zone recently held a delegates conference at Lococoon Hotel Kwale, Delta State, with a theme, reshaping south-south Economy through creative writing.

The protem chairman ANA South-South zone Mr. Alaska Ekele in his welcome address asserted that, “I decided to call this conference to enable us reason together. There is also a similar meeting in the South-West, North and East. Therefore, having a bloc from the South-South is not  out of place.

The protem chairman also noted that, he noticed that membership of ANA from the south-south geo-political zone is dwindling for reason we may need to investigate. If we don’t have serious or committed members from the south-south we may not be able to make in-roads into the National Exco of ANA. Politics is a game of number. We can therefore use this medium to sensitize educate and mobilize membership.

Members of  Association. of Nigeria Authors South-South zone in a group photograph @ Lococoon Hotel Kwale, Delta

He further stated that, as members of one literary family, we can help reduce the rot in the educational sector. Noting that, the reading culture is gradually dying out like candle flame. A student can conveniently mentioned all the big clubs and footballers in the world off hand yet he/she cannot mention names of recommended books or authors.

Mr. Ekele also said that, “we can attempt to address the decay in our educational sector by organizing healthy competitions among the students. Off course we cannot achieve this without partnering with corporate organizations, moneybags, politicians and the government. If they can partner with movie/film makers there is nothing stopping us from partnering with them”.

He also reiterate that “Apart from asking our money bags, politicians or the government to sponsor competitions, they can sponsor the publication of our individual books and anthologies on mutually agreeable terms. By so doing, the books can reach many hands at highly reduced prices. Once this is achieved youth restiveness, militancy, kidnapping and social vices would be reduced to the barest minimum”.

Meanwhile Prof. Sam Ukala who delivered a keynote addressed at the delegate conference asserted that, in late November 2016, Alaska Ekele added me to the ANA South-South whatsapp group, I initially thought it was nothing but a political party not register by INEC. I wondered why it should exist. Must we add politics to everything? Why don’t they go and write more and publish more? What would they be discussing other then how to wrestle power from other sections of this country that have dominated ANA National politics since it inceptions in 1981? On second thought I asked, what makes the zones holding ANA National power more qualified to hold it than the south-south zone? After all Chinua Achebe from the South East zone was the founder and his zone didn’t and couldn’t monopolize power.

Prof. Sam Ukala also noted that, in the 36 years of existence of ANA’s only four of Nigeria’s six geo-political zones have produced its president: South East – 1, South West – 5, North Central – 3, South – 2. The Association has had the following general secretaries: Kole Omotosho, 1981-1984; Odia Ofeimun, 1984-1988, Ada Ugah, 1988-1990, Bode Sowande, 1990-1993, Nnimmo Bassey, 1993-1997, Wale Okediran 1997-2001; Nduka Otiono 2001-2005, Danja Abdullahi, 2005-2009, Hyacinth Obunseh 2009-2011; Tanko Okoduwa 2011-2015; Ofonime Inyang, 2015 till date. But I joined ANA in 1985 while Achebe was still president and have found no indication that Presidents or General secretaries have emerged by any other means than playing ANA politics.

Prof Ukala further asserted that, he recalls the title of Chinua Achebe’s address to the first meeting of ANA, which he convened. The address, entitled, “why an Association” was delivered Jun 27, 1981. In it, Achebe gave two reasons why he felt an association was necessary. The first was to create a platform for writers to begin to concern themselves with the business aspects of writing – publishing, contracts, copyright, translations, royalty, negotiations, as well as to provide assistance to new writers and writers in distress.

According to him, the second reason was to sensitize writers, who are usually conformists and anti-establishment of the dangers they face in the Nigerian society, which was fraught with fanaticism in religion, ethnicity and politics and to get them prepared for their possible loss of freedom or even life, which other writers have suffered in other countries with similar religious ethnic and political intolerance. All of us recall how non-conformism and anti-establishment landed Wole Soyinka in Jail and Ken-Saro-Wiwa in the gallows.

He also said that, for one to qualify to hold political power in ANA National, you must be an author of a published creative work, who has attended at least two annual conventions before an election year, in order to vote and be voted for.

He also reiterate that, how many of you would have had at least a published creative work by 2019? How many of you would have attended two national annual convention? How many of you would have become eminent published writers?. Therefore you have till 2019 to assess your arsenal and reposition yourself. So, if ANA south south honestly assesses itself and works to eradicate its shortfalls, it would definitely stand a good chance in 2019 and beyond to produce the president who holds the executive power.

 

Mr.Ekele Being introduce as the potent of South-South zone

Prof. Ukala however charged the ANA south-south delegates that, the real assignments belong to the branches within the south-south: writing, publishing, mentoring aspiring new writers through editing their work and helping them find publishers, membership drive, outreach programmes, attendance of meetings, award prizes. At the zonal level, focus should be more on coordination, formulating broad policies, award of higher prizes, presenting consensus candidates at the national conventions and reaching out to other zones.

The highlight of the delegates conference was the appointment of Protem officers to run the affairs of the ANA south-south zone. Mr. Alaska Ekele as chairman (Delta), Joy Esuku, Vice chairman (Rivers), Dr. Ofonime Inyang, Secretary (Akwa-Ibom), Mr. Preye Julius, P.R.O (Bayelsa), Goodluck Osama Ogbeide, (Edo State).  

Colours as Barr. Erijo Celebrates Life at 60

By Jenny Akporero

It is important we celebrate God’s goodness in our lives because no one loves you more than God and yourself, celebrating my “Diamond Age” is God’s grace and love upon me and my household.

Barrister Mrs. Mary Erijo the philanthropist had this discussion with us prior to the thanksgiving and celebration at Hotel Valeri Asaba on the 8^th of July 2017.

Barr. Mrs. Mary Erijo flanked by Hon Barr. Ovie Agas, Hon. Johnson Erijo, Hon. Eta Enahoro, Mrs. Nkem Okuofu, Mrs. Oyibotha and others cutting the birthday cake

Barrister Mrs. Mary Oghenekome Erijo turned 60^th on 7^th July 2017 but had a well packaged spectacular party on 8^th July 2017, praise and worship was anchored by Paul Nams and the unveilers while the 60^th birthday message was by Ven. Charles Osemenam. In his message, he said, “it takes God to keep us standing, indeed it has been God all the way for Barrister Mrs. Erijo.

Story with pix Pg 16...Barr. Erijo Celebrating Life at 60 with a dance

Having lost two (2) of her four children to sickle cell amenia (Omoefe serving youth copper and Ajiroghene Erijo). A talk on sickle cell and cancer, prevention and management was given by Dr. Mrs. Okwe to educate the guest at the party.

Barr.Erijo loves smiling, praising and dancing to God despite all her short comings in life. she was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2013 and currently runs a law firm M.O. Erijo and Associates in Asaba. As former vice president general of Ibrede community, her home town, Ndokwa East LGA of Delta State, she gave scholarship to deserving students and provided uniforms for over 400 pupils of her town. She also empowered women of Isoko south with wrappers blouses and also gave some cash to farm and trade.

Celebrant with family members

·       It is not a secret that Rt. Hon. Prince Johnson Erijo, her brother-in-law who was the chairman of occasion and late chief Dr. A.K. Ubeku brought her into Delta politics.

        

·       She was one time chairman adult and non-formal education board 2007, she was also special assist on women affairs to former Delta speaker Rt. Hon. Victory Ochie. She is a member of Nigeria, Bar Association, member FIDA, member board of trustees of Ewheyea Isoko Association of Nigeria and legal advicer, Isoko Development Union (women’s wing). Presently, she is the focal person on Youths on a Mission.” The 05 initiative an NGO own by Dame Edit Okowa.

·       Dignitaries present at the event includes Hon. (Barr.) Ovie Agas and wife, Prince (Hon.) Johnson Erijo and wife Mrs. Nkem Okuofu chairman Delta State civil service commission, members of FIDA, Hon (Barr.) and Mrs. Okperi, Hon Eta Enahoro, Chief John Araka, Hon (Mrs.) Kate Iloho, friends and family members. 

Greed is the Problem of Ethnic Nationality in Nigeria – Okpighe

By Kelvin Ohoror

The President of Emede Grammar School Old Students Association (EGSOSA) Mr. James Okpighe has identify greed as the major factor bedeviled ethnic nationality in Nigeria, he made this known during the 44^th year anniversary/re-union of Emede Grammar School.

According to Okpighe, what is actually wrong with Nigeria that we cannot stay together? The new word in the Nigeria lexicon now is, let us restructure. They forgot history, those who are saying let us restructure, because their misadventure somewhere will affect me. So, I have to make it clear, do not push us into unnecessary war, he stated.

The President of the old Students Association also reiterate that, why are we issuing threat to ourselves under the guise of secession and restructure. Before independence in this country, Nigerians sat down and restructure in 1957 with every region controlling their resources and to develop at their own pace.

Chief James Okpihe delivering a paper on greed the problem of ethnic nationality of nigeria

He also noted that, the northerners demanded for the highest number of seats in the parliament before they can accept to restructuring of the country in 1957. But Dr. Nnamdi Azikwe desire to be President of greater Nigeria and other people of the region allowed the Northern Nigeria to have majority seats in the parliament, this was the first problem of Nigeria as a country.

Mr. Okpighe further asserted that, when the people of the south discovered that they have made a mistake, they wanted the amendment of the constitution, the North did not accept, the next option was violence to change the structure of the Federalism. At that time your resources takes care of your own region, nobody carry money to the centre and share back. It was the regions that say we will contribute this to the central and develop at our own pace.

He also said that, if the Easterners soldiers have not stage a coup d’état, there wouldn’t have been a counter coup. Eastern soldiers killed everybody in Nigeria except their own people and the North said enough is enough and the then military head of state Aguiyi Ironsi who is also from the South-East decided also to abolished Federalism with decree No 34.

He lamented that, due to that decree, promotion has to been on merit, which means all the whole sensitive position was to be for Igbo and Yoruba people who were more educated at that time. The Northern people now said, they have killed us and again no more quota system, we shall die. What is happening now occurred then, all Igbo leave the Northern region and they refused, and they were killed. If you have anybody in the North let them come home before October 1^st.

His words “the Igbo’s who caused the problem are now including Edo, Delta, Rivers in Biafra. Why not only the core Eastern States? They are doing this because of the oil. What are they bringing to the table? Their land is not fertile, so why joining them. Every ethnic group accommodate one another, is only the South-East that don’t accommodate. How many Isoko people are in the South-East doing business? You can go to the North, West and trade, you will prosper but in the South-East no way”.    

Okowa meets Gbaramatu, Ogbe-Ijoh, Aladja communities ----Says dialogue remains the best option to settling disputes

DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has sued for peace between the people of Gbaramatu, Aladja, and Udu communities in the state, saying communities should always apply dialogue as the best way of settling dispute.
Addressing the press after a closed door meeting with security operatives, traditional rulers, members of the peace-building council and some stakeholders from Gbaramatu, Ogbe-Ijoh and Aladja Communities that lasted for more than two hours at the Government House annex, Warri, Governor Okowa disclosed that the meeting was necessary to avoid escalation of hostilities between the communities.
According to him, "the meeting was to maintain peace in the area while the Police carry out its investigation into what happened in the area."
"At the meeting, we appealed to the communities to remain peaceful and we have a favourable outcome as we have been assured by the communities that they will maintain the peace," the Governor stated.
On the outcome of the committee set up to find lasting solution to the crisis, the Governor assured that the right thing would be done, noting that the committee had submitted its report but, it requires a process for the white paper to be released, reiterating that his administration would ensure peaceful co-existence among the people.

 Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (2nd right); Secretary to State Government, Hon. Ovie Agas (2nd left); Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Peter Mrakpo (left) and the Sector I Commander (JTF) Op

Earlier in an opening remark before the meeting went into closed-door, Governor Okowa said, "it is unfortunate that we have lost some lives when the crisis erupted when I was on vacation, the Deputy Governor who was acting has briefed me appropriately and we are here with members of the Peace Building Council, traditional rulers and members of the state security council to fashion a way forward for us to live in peace."
"I appreciate the Gbaramatu community for the restraint and I believe that there is nothing that can be better than peaceful co-existence," he added.

Over 300 deaf,dumb holds Gov Okorocha to ransom in Imo State over discriminatory policies

deaf-and-dumb

No fewer than over 300 deaf and dumb citizens in Imo state have staged a protest against the alleged discriminatory policies of Governor Rochas Okorocha in the state.
The protesters stalled activities in Government House, Owerri, as they barred people from entering or leaving the premises for hours.
The aggrieved persons, who were acting on the platform of Association of the Deaf and Dumb (ADD), tried to force themselves into the premises but were resisted by the security personnel posted to the beat. Speaking through a Catholic Nun to journalists, chairman of the group, Mr. Edwards Uzoma, lamented that the present administration in the state has failed to release their subventions, totalling N12 million.
They accused Governor Rochas Okorocha of having marginalised them in all his programmes, including employment and empowerment schemes.

Reactions trail warri pastor commanding women to pick husbands uuring service

A clergyman in Delta State, Prophet Jeremiah Fufeyin, of the Christ Mercyland Deliverance Ministry, on Friday July 21 2017 incurred the wrath of many Nigerians after a video of him asking a woman to move round the auditorium and pick a man as husband during service emerged online.
Fufeyin was seen ordering the woman to come towards where he stood at the front before asking after her husband.
When the woman responded that she was yet to marry, the pastor giggled before asking her when she wished to marry.
Immediately the woman answered that she would wish to be married on that very day, Fufeyin asked her to quickly go round the auditorium to pick a husband.
The light-complexioned lady sporting a blue native attire, moved round different sections of the packed auditorium while the pastor followed closely behind.
After insisting that she had not found a man of her choice to take as husband, the prophet then asked men interested in taking her as wife to file out.
About eight men came out but the woman told the clergyman that she was not interested in any of them, prompting him to say that her eyes had been covered by supernatural forces.
He said, “The reason why you are just moving around without finding a man is because they put a mask to cover your face.

Pastor-Fufeyin-in-church

“In the realm of the spirit, you are just moving aimlessly. Anybody that comes your way just chop (sic) and go. No be so?
“They plaster your face not to find husband until you grow old.”
***The clergyman thereafter asked ladies interested in marrying the eight men, who had come out for the first woman to line up behind them.
While one or two ladies queued up behind some of the men, a particular one among them had 11 women lining up behind him.
Fufeyin thereafter said he gave the men till the end of the month to screen their “wives” and pick the one person they want to marry.
He said, “Pastors, write down the husbands’ names. We cannot allow women to remain like this forever. I want to marry off this people. I give you people from now till month end to screen your wives. Nobody should go and meet them at night; if you go I’ll catch you.
“I will sponsor the marriages in this church on the same day. I give you time to check yourself.”
He then turned to the first lady and told her to go and look for her husband before laying hands on her.
The woman fell to the ground immediately his hands came upon her.
Reacting to the entire episode, readers on PUNCH’s online platform, www.punchng.com, rained hard knocks on the prophet.
A commentor, Omo9ja, said, “What these fake pastors will cause in this country, they will not be able to solve it. Stealing and lying in the name of God. They are just mocking Christianity. There is God o.”
Another commentor identified only as Nigeriamovingforward, said, “Religious enslavement has taken over Nigeria. Business / church centres.”
Admonisher, another reader, wrote, “This is so against the Biblical teachings on marriage. Church has become business, reality shows and den of corrupt and discredited politicians.”
Emmanco, a separate reader, wrote, “I can’t believe what I just watched. How can these guys continue to take advantage of the weak and poor souls and get away with it? I am not judging but this is an abuse of power and immoral to say the least. I think it’s high time the government set up an agency to monitor this type of abuse and fraudulent religious leaders.”
Dycc Dunukofia emmanco, wrote, “This is a show of shame… what these prophets of doom are doing now is terrible. Some pastors will tell their members to eat grasses like goat to get money… One church camera even captured holy ghost flying in the church….I wrote it in small letter oooo……ALL NA WORK.”
A commentor, Acheme David Ijegwa, said, “How lost Christians have become, unable to discern where the Spirit of God resides. Sheep that doesn’t know the voice of the master easily follows wolves.”
Daniel Dalon Comrade Easy wrote, “That lady is in love with the pastor – that’s why she couldn’t choose….Not to worry, he will soon divorce his wife and be her husband, it’s permitted in new generation churches.”
PUNCH

Community Newspapers, the right channel to reach grassroots

By Owho Warri

The Commanding Officer, CO, 3 Battalion of Nigerian Army, Effurun in Delta State, Major Ahmed Abdulkadir has tasked members of Delta State Chapter of Association of Community Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria, ACNPN to use their association/publications to champion the fight against pipeline vandalism, crude oil theft, kidnapping and other criminal activities in the Niger Delta. He noted that community newspapers is the right channel to reach the grassroots because of its coverage and understanding of the rural dwellers.

Major Abdulkadir who is the Rear Elements’ Commanding Officer of 3 Battalion, Effurun gave the task Monday July 10 at the 3 Battalion, Nigerian Army Barrack, Effurun near Warri when he played host to members of Delta State Chapter of ACNPN.

Cross Section of Delta State ACNPN members & Major Ahmed Abdulkadri (middle)

While admonishing the Delta State indigenous publishers to use their media to reach out to people of the grassroots on the need to stop crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism and other economic sabotage, the Army Chief assured members of ACNPN of a cordial working relationship aimed at stopping criminal elements from operating in the Niger Delta.

Our publisher who was a part of the visit stressed the importance of the visit, noting that this is the first time a working relationship is being established between Delta indigenous Newspapers/Magazine publishers and military formations which looks like a good beginning. Meanwhile a staff of Defense Headquarters, Mr. Peter Dong at Efferun barracks stressed the need for ACNPN to deploy their platforms to preach peaceful ethnic co-existence in the country.

Speaking earlier, Delta State Chairman of ACNPN, Comrade Jude Obiemenyego solicited for a working relationship between the Army in Delta State with a view to ensuring adequate reportage of their activities.

The chairman of ACNPN, Comrade Obiemenyego was accompanied by members of his executive and a couple of Delta indigenous publishers.

Lack of Leadership Arrowhead, Problem in Isoko -HOSTCOM BOSS
...Accuses Okowa's Govt of Dividing PDP
By Elo Edremoda

Morrister Idibra

Chairman of Host Communities of Nigeria, Isoko Chapter, Comrade Morrister Idibra, has pegged the problem of Isoko on the lack of an "arrowhead", an ethnic leader.

He also accused the current state government of creating division in the People's Democratic Party in Isoko South council area.

Speaking in an interview with isoko recently at Warri, Idibra noted that neighbouring ethnic nationalities of Itsekiri and Ijaw have single leaders (the Olu of Warri and Chief Edwin Clark respectively), who irrespective of political or otherwise affiliations, speak for them.

"Leadership arrowhead is the problem we have in Isoko. Any body who is chanced to hold an office, sees himself as a leader and it is not helping Isoko as a nation. My advice to this at the higher cadre of our leadership is that they come together, let them subject themselves to one another so that we can have one arrowhead as Isoko leader. This is not about politics. Politically, we may not be able to have only one because of political differences. But we should have an ethnic leader. For the Ijaws, whether E. K. Clark belongs to PDP or not, every Ijaw person sees him as his leader. When an issue comes, he is consulted and when he speaks, people largely listen.

"We need to look at somebody, the person may not be a politician but one who has an independent opinion and also has national interaction, so that when he speaks, people will know somebody has spoken," Idibra advised.

On the division of Isoko South PDP, he said: "The way the government is going about the politics of Delta in PDP, it is helping to divide the party in Isoko South in particular. We are all PDP members, who worked in our own capacity to deliver PDP, but the governor is seeing some people as second class members. He is teaching us a political lesson that might be practised in the near future."

All transactions, discussions should go through me, not my aide – Powerlee

The current pro-wrestling African heavyweight champion Mr. Godspower Ikpide popularly called Powerlee De Great has issued a press statement, directing that henceforth, all transactions, discussions should be directly consulted and not through his aide.

Power Lee

He made this known in a statement duly signed by him and made available to journalists at his office in Ajah area of Lagos State.

“I wish to inform you that henceforth, I will be handling all transactions and discussions directly and not through any aide at the moment. I also want to use this medium to thank all my fans for their prayers and support” he said. 

Oscar calls for more training for Tradomedical practitioners

By Simeon Okworide

The medical director of Oscar tradomedical clinic located at Ijanikin, Alasia bus stop, along Badagry expressway, Lagos, High Chief Dr. Oscar Itimi has called on the three tiers of government to be more proactive to organizing training's for tradomedical practitioners across the nation to enhance efficiency and effective services to augment orthodox medicine just as it is being practice in China and India, stressing that this will help in long way to reducing inefficiency and ineffective services in the nation health sector.

Dr. Oscar Itimi disclosed this while speaking to some selected journalists recently at his clinic. He laid emphasis on the need for the federal government to create a policy that will enhance the efficiency of the tradomedical practitioners through an academy where herbal practitioners can get a formal training, especially on the application of Herbal medicine, stressing that this can be achieved through the federal ministry of health and it should encourage states and local government to do same at their various levels and noted that Lagos State government has taken the lead already because it has established an academy in conjunction with the tradomedical practitioners where the tradomedical practitioners receives training on the application of Herbal medicine.

Dr. Oscar discussing with Chief Robinson Eregare in a function recently

According to him, while explaining the efficacy of the traditional medicine, he observed that because a lot of people do not know the importance of herbs, they are always skeptic about the effectiveness of herbs, not knowing that even the orthodox medicines are produced from herbs depending on the application. He also noted that people thinks that once you are a tradomedical practitioner, you must be an idol worshipper which is not true, stressing that God almighty created herbs for healing and there is nowhere the bible condemns the usage of herbs because they were created by God for mankind.

Dr. Oscar who was confident, supported his argument with the following scriptures verses like: Genesis 1:29-30, Psalm 104:14-17 and Revelation 22:2.

“The Bible is very clear about all these things, if you  go through these verses mentioned, you will understand what I am talking about because being a tradomedical practitioner does not mean you are an idol worshipper” he said.

UNIDEF, Fasheun hosts Al-Mustapha, says recycling of failures must stop

By Simeon Okworide

The United Niger Delta Forum (UNIDEF) led by Comrade Gabriel Ese and founder of the Odua People’s Congress (OPC), Dr. Federick Fasheun recently hosted the former Chief Security Officer (CSO) tolate Gen. Sani Abacha, major Hamza Al-Mustapha (Rtd) at century hotel in Lagos where Al-Mustapha gave a lecture on howto move the nation forward, while at the same time used the medium to exonerate himself from all criminal charges leveled against him that were related to the death of Kudirat Abiola, Alex Ibru and a purportedly coup plot which he was accused of during the days of his trials and how he was eventually discharged and acquitted of all the charges leveled against him by the appeal court.

Major Al-Mustapha (Rtd) in his speech maintained that oil and gas which comes from the Niger Delta region remains the mainstay of the nation economy and therefore still wonder why the people of the region should be subjected to poverty without considering their education and development of theregion is unacceptable, stressing that, there is need for all oppressed Nigerians to come together and say no because these group of people who are responsible for the maladministration of the nation economy “people call them cabal but I call them a clique”

Al-Mustapha with Chief J.A.D. Iboma & Comrade & Mrs. Ese at the event

On restructuring, Al-Mustapha stressed the importance of restructuring and good governance and recall that he was one of those who suggested the creation of additional six states and six geo-political zone during Abacha administration to meet up with the demands and aspirations of agitators then, but inspite of that various groups from different part of the country are still complaining of one thing or the other, stressing that the clique that held the nation to ransom refused to dispense good governance to the people and continue to invest on the parent and electronic media to castigate and intimidate those calling for good governance where the oppressed Nigerians will have a sense of belonging.

In his speech, Dr. Federick Fasheun stressed the importance of restructuring the nation where every Nigerian will have a sense of belonging, that if the 2014 national conference report was being implemented, the agitations for creation of states and local council, self government and resource control would have cease because the conference report would have taken care of all the demands of the agitators. He emphasized that, the only thing that will bring succor to Nigerians is to say no to recycling of failures, noting that once you recycle failures, what you get is failure. He therefore urged the young ones to take up challenges and say no to the older ones who have been in government since independence and refused to quit, siting the example of the 39 years, president of France.

“When you recycle failure, what you get is failures, France just elected a young man of 39 years as president, that can also happen here in Nigeria, it all the young, ones say no to recycling of the same old breeds, because when one stays more than necessary, you become feeble and nothing to offer anymore” he said.

Earlier, the UNIDEF president, Comrade Ese Gabriel had told the gathering that Nnamdi Kanu and his fellow agitators may have their reasons for agitating for Biafra, stressing that his group believed in one indivisible Nigeria and noted that what his group is clamouring for is to restructure a system that favour region to control its resources and reporting back to the centre. “All we are clamouring for is a system restructured to favour regional resource control where every region will in charge of its resources and reports back to the centre” he said.

The immediate past president of IDU, Lagos Branch, Chief JAD Iboma who gave voter of thanks, he thanked Al-Mustapha for updating them of what exactly transpired during his trial, saying in view of what they have heard from the horses mouth today, they would be able to correct some of the views earlier expressed in the print and electronic media and used the medium to encourage him to continue to use for a like this to tell the people his true position of things, hoping that with time, people not in tune with him will begin to balance their opinion having heard from him.

Major Al-Mustapha (3rd frm left), Dr Federick Fasheun, Abayomi Kash, Comrade Ese, Mrs. Ellen Prese,

He also thanked Comrade Ese and Dr. Fasheun for using this forum to bring Al-Mustapha to able to share his views with the people.

“Having heard from you today, we now know the true position of things during your trials and we can also correct those distorted information we earlier received during your trials. Keep on talking so that people will know the role you played in all the allegations leveled against you” he said.