All Posts in "Day: August 22, 2024"

Strike Threat:Give Maximum Security To Power Infrastructure,Stakeholders Tell Minister

Mohammed Shosanya

Stakeholders in the nation’s power sector have implored the Federal Government to consider maximum security for the country’s infrastructure.

The advice came on the heels of the current threat by the National Union of Electricity Employees, NUEE, to shut down the power sector if the President of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Joe Ajaero, is arrested.

The Intelligence Response Team, IRT, arm of the Nigerian Police Force, NPF, had Monday, August 19, invited Ajaero, for questioning over criminal conspiracy, terrorism financing, treasonable felony, subversion and cybercrime.

A power expert,Kassim Adeyemi,advised the Minister of Power,Chief Bayo Adelabu to work with his defence counterparts with a view to providimg maximum security for critical power infrastructure.

He added:”He should also work with IGP, any attempt to plunge Nigeria into darkness should be treated as economic sabotage, period”.

Another expert,Yussuf Shuaibu Obosi,described the electricity workers’ strike threat as unreasonable.

He added:”This is unreasonable.When you use threats of strike at any slightest disagreement it becomes a nuisance to the country. Sometimes I imagine of the labour union know the effects of strike on the economy which they want to earn a decent wage from

“Why preempt the police.The man was invited,let him go and defend himself first.The nation is too big to be shut down sector for one man.

“Can any of the union leaders allow strikes as they do if they own private businesses ? We should be reasonable,please.Electricity is a matter of national security”.

NUEE’s Acting General Secretary, Igwebike Dominic, had in a statement noted with utter dismay the political machinations surrounding the police invitation of its General Secretary-cum-President of Nigeria Labour Congress – Comrade Joe Ajaero as a purported fall out of the politically-motivated investigation into an alleged trump up charges of terrorism financing, cybercrime, subversion, criminal conspiracy and treasonable felony against him.

The statement noted that it was not only embarrassing, but childish and clueless for the Federal Government of Nigeria to take to the antics of witch-hunting, harassment, intimidation and name-calling instead of coming out openly to apologize to the Congress and its leadership for the unlawful invasion of NLC National headquarters few days ago.

According to the statement, the choice by the Government to stifle labour and free speech in the country as a tool to compel Nigerians to continue to suffer in silence in the face of government policies that were not favorable to the people was quite deplorable.

The statement said, “Those in government, especially elected leaders, should be mindful of their actions in times like this, if they have the love of the country at heart.”

It emphasised that it was so painful to see this happening in a democracy where it is supposed to be ‘Government of the people, by the people and for the people’, lamenting that what Nigerians have is simply the government of the selected few, for themselves against the people.

The NUEE’s Acting General Secretary noted that it was a blatant abuse of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and International Labour Organization Conventions especially convention 87 and 98, was unacceptable and would be vehemently resisted.

The union condemned what it called government’s interference in the labour movement through the weapons of intimidation and official harassment of Labour Leaders, in the country, warning that in the event that Comrade Ajaero is arrested, they will have no choice but to go with the NLC directives.

NUEE called on their National, Zonal, State and Chapter leadership to commence immediate mobilization of their teaming members in generation, transmission and distribution to withdraw their services in the event that Comrade Joe Ajaero is arrested.

admin by — August 22, 2024 in Power 0
Don’t Review PPA 2007, Group Cautions FG

Omobolanle Shosanya

The Procurement Observation and Advocacy Initiative, PRADIN has cautioned the Federal Government against plan to amend the Public Procurement Act (PPA) 2007 for the sixth time.

Its National Secretary, Barr. Ayo Adebosoye,conveyed the group’s plan in a statement made available to Premium News on Wednesday.

The group’s intent was based on the need to ensure the growth of the nation through robust procurement related issues, he said.

He said:”Our organization, Procurement Observation and Advocacy Initiative, PRADIN has written a formal letter to the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, dated August 12, 2024 and signed by our National Coordinator, Mohammed Bougei Attah, advising the federal government to shelve the planned amendment to the Public Procurement Act (PPA) 2007

“Recall that on August 14, 2004, the Federal Executive Council, FEC at its meeting resolved that the PPA 2007 should be reviewed. The reason provided was that the “The government’s desire is to reconcile discrepancies between the Appropriation Act, the PPA 2007 and the Fiscal Responsibility Act” This was announced by the Honourable Minister of Budget and National Planning during his address to State House Correspondents.

“He revealed that a Committee was said to have been set up under the Chairmanship of the Minister of Justice to review the PPA 2007 and consider the above, as reported in several national media outlets including the Leadership Newspaper.

“As a leading voice of civil society organizations, CSOs in Nigeria’s procurement eco-system, that have participated in most of the unsuccessful amendments to the same Act since the year 2017, we feel duty-bound to share our thoughts and experiences on the subject to guide the Committee in this national assignment to move the nation forward. This we believe is very important and necessary in view of the lapses recorded in the past, from the era of President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua to President Muhammadu Buhari spanning ten (10) years and more.”

He explained that the main focus of the committee’s work is to enhance fiscal responsibility and transparency in government’s spending.

“While this is a good move, it should be noted that similar objectives for amendments were made in previous attempts to amend the Act. It is important to draw your attention to the fact that this next amendment, if it scales through, will be the sixth (6th) in the series of amendments sought.

‘And while it is a common knowledge that no law is perfect and that all laws are amenable to review, our argument against the proposed review is based on the simple fact that the PPA 2007 under discourse has never been implemented in full. Part 1, Section 1 of the Act, under ‘Establishment of the National Council on Public Procurement (NCPP) and its Membership has not been implemented by the Federal Government as the law demand. And this we know is connected to all issues, including fiscal accountability and transparency in governance as well as corruption in the public sector,” he stated.

He added:”The law (PPA 2007) that provides for the establishment of NCPP was passed in 2007 by the National Assembly, 17 years ago, but previous Presidents, pursuant to Sections 5(1), 148(1) 4(2) and 4(3) as well as S.171 of the 1999 Constitution failed to inaugurate the council till date.

“President Umaru Musa Yaradua made an attempt in September 2007 to inaugurate this Council but this was cancelled when the “members” of the Council were seated and a report by the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply Management, CIPSMN to the President in writing accused the BPP of submitting the name of a student member of the Institute to the then Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF without consultation with the Institute to confirm if the nominee is a member of the Institute qualified by examinations.

“Lack of capacity to interpret the laws, apply them as well as interrogate defaulters is another factor that has been the bane of our large-scale corruption in public procurement. For example, there is no Procurement Audit Report that has been submitted to the National Assembly as required by law in Section 5(P) of PPA since 2007 because the BPP does not as at today have any competent and qualified person, as required by law, to sign a Public Procurement Audit report and lay same on the table of the National Assembly bi-annually as required in the above section of the law read together with the CIPSMN Act 2007. It is exactly thirteen (13) years since this law was enacted and we are yet to address the huge gap in our quest to fight corruption.”

He further stated,”By virtue of the provisions of section 5(1) and 148(1) of the 1999 Constitution as well as the Finance (Management Control) Act of 1958, only a National Council on Public Procurement with the Hon Minister of Finance as Chairman can consider, approve and amend the Monetary and Prior Review thresholds for the application of the provisions of Public Procurement Act 2007 by procuring entitles. So, by implications, the threshold presently in use without Council’s approval is illegal and not correct.

“The Council is not required to approve procurement contracts of MDAs but is expected to consider the associations of partnership with the BPP which will facilitate the discharge of its functions and to go into liaison with relevant bodies or institutions, at national and international levels for effective performance of its functions under the Act. By these provisions, the law envisages a Council before the Bureau (to serve as its Secretariat), but in the present circumstances, it is the Bureau in existence without the Council. A case of a child without a father.

“In conclusion, fiscal accountability and transparency in governance as well as reduction in corruption in the public sector stem from sound procurement practices”.

admin by — August 22, 2024 in News 0
FG Adjusts Passport Fees

Omobolanle Shosanya

The Federal Government has approved an upward review of the fees for the Nigerian Passport effective from 1st September 2024.

The spokesman of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), DCI Kenneth Udo, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday.

The statement added that the move was a part of the efforts to maintain the quality and integrity of the Nigerian Standard Passport.

“Based on the review, a 32-page Passport booklet with 5-year validity previously charged at Thirty-five Thousand Naira (N35,000.00) will now be Fifty Thousand Naira (N50,000.00) only; while a 64-page Passport booklet with 10-year validity which was Seventy Thousand Naira (N70,000.00) will be One Hundred Thousand Naira (N100,000.00) only.

“However, the fees remain unchanged in Diaspora,” he said.

Expressing regrets about any inconvenience this increase might cause prospective applicants,the NIS assured Nigerians of unwavering commitment to transparency and quality service delivery at all times.

admin by — August 22, 2024 in News 0
Fuel Scarcity: Nigeria On Path Of Failed State,Says PENGASSAN

Mohammed Shosanya

A country that cannot meet its energy needs or guarantee energy availability for its citizens is on the path of becoming a failed state,President of
Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN),Comrade Festus Osifo,has said.

Nigeria has been battling recurring fuel scarcity necessitating skyrocket cost of the product and increased cost of doing business in the country lately.

Osifo,who stated this on Wednesday in Abuja at the 2024 PENGASSAN Energy and Labour Summit (PEALS 2024),also said Nigeria stood at a crossroads, especially in the oil and gas sector.

The union vowed to take action to end the scourge, which poses a significant threat to the oil industry, economy, and national integrity.

He attributed the current economic hardship in Nigeria to the policies of the government like the floating of the currency.

Speaking on the themed: “The future of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry: Energy mix, energy security, Artificial Intelligence, divestment, and crude oil theft”, he said: “The scourge of crude oil theft poses a significant threat to our industry, economy, and national integrity.

“As an association, we have mounted the rostrum over time, both on the streets and in the boardroom, to champion this cause, and we will not relent until victory is certain.

“We are steadfast in our resolve to continuously partner with other stakeholders in the industry to combat this menace through enhanced security measures, technological innovations, community engagement, and collaboration with law enforcement agencies,’’ he said.

Osifo,who is also the President of Trade Union Congress of Nigeria,said the actions and decisions of the association must gear toward rescuing the country.

He said the summit would design a framework for a policy trust for the government towards shaping the economic outlook of the country.

“It is incumbent upon us to drive positive change, foster economic growth, and ensure our people’s prosperity. Recent policy directions by the government have placed untold hardship on Nigerians. Chief among them is the flotation cum devaluation of the naira, which saw our currency slide from N450 officially in May 2023 to the current exchange rate of about N1600.

“This is the reason why the landing price of PMS today is over N1,000 (reintroduction of subsidy), the reason why AGO is selling for over N1,300 and the reason why all imported commodities are over the roof today. The overarching impact of these on Nigerians can only be imagined rather than experienced,’’ he said.

According to him the floating of the naira in the official market had exacerbated the challenges faced by their members.

He called on industry players to explore innovative solutions to forestall financial losses to workers and prevent undue gains to companies and ensure a fair and equitable environment for all.

Osifo said PENGASSAN would do all it could to push for just and equitable distribution across its branches.

He appreciated the President Bola Tinubu for the recent signing of Executive Order that granted incentives to investments in the oil and gas industry.

He said the move translated to the recent $550 million Final Investment Decision announced by NNPC Limited and TotalEnergies on the Ubeta project.

Osifo said PENGASSAN also recognised the efforts of NNPC Limited management in furthering partnership initiatives in the upstream and downstream sector of the Industry.

“The recent MOU signed by NNPC Limited with Total Energies and separately with Shell are indications of fostering good relationships with critical partners.

“The expansion of CNG and LPG infrastructures by NNPC Limited across the nook and crannies of the country is a right step in the right direction and this must be encouraged and deepened,’’ he said

He assured that the summit would forge a path toward a brighter and more sustainable energy future for the industry and the nation.

Speaking,the Minister of State for Oil, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, noted that one of the major issues the country is facing was energy security and sufficiency.

He said Nigeria plays critical role in energy security in Africa, adding that the surest way to resolving Nigeria’s socio-economic problem would by ensuring energy security in oil and gas.

He explained why smuggling of the petroleum products would not go away so soon.

He said, “The integration of renewable energy sources alongside our traditional oil and gas resources is essential in achieving this balance. Energy security is at the core of national security.

“In an era where global energy dynamics are rapidly changing, Nigeria must strategically position itself to not only meet its domestic energy needs but also to remain a key player in the international arena.

“This requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders—government, industry, and labor—to develop policies and practices that safeguard our energy infrastructure and ensure uninterrupted supply.”

Speaking on the support for local refineries, the Minister said, “The Federal Government is committed to supporting local refineries in its bid to enhance domestic refining capacity, reduce dependency on imported refined products, and stimulate economic growth.

“The Federal government remains determined to ensure that local refineries thrive by creating and promoting a conducive environment for potential investors, as we believe that having operational refineries within the country is crucial for our economic growth and energy security.”

admin by — August 22, 2024 in Labour/Human Resources 0
Police Kill 27 Kidnappers In Enugu

Tọluwani Shosanya

No fewer than 27 kidnappers, including members of the Auto Pilot, also known as Unknown Gunmen, a notorious breakaway faction of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) loyal to the Finland based fugitive, Simon Ekpa, which terrorized Enugu and its environs had been killed in shoot-outs with security operatives.

According to a statement from the Governor media office, the kidnappers were killed at various locations across the state in the past two weeks.

It said the residents of the state appealed to the governor to invoke the provisions of the state’s criminal code and demolish all the properties used by kidnappers and other criminal elements as stash houses, saying it would serve as deterrent to criminals.

According to the statement, a Police Superintendent, SP Onochie Ezeh, who led a joint security operation to rescue some kidnap victims, while Speaking at Ugwuogo Nike-Opi Road in the early hours of Wednesday,said the operation led to the killing of 7-man-gang kidnappers at Ogbeke Nike where the kidnappers used a large poultry farm to hide their hostages.

He explained that Wednesday’s successful operation was part of the sustained operations in the state to flush out criminals operating from other neighboring states, including kidnappers, unknown gunmen and other unscrupulous elements.

“We were on the trail of these kidnappers for more than three months now. They had been operating within this axis where they kidnapped their victims and kept them at a large poultry farm at Ogbeke Nike until ransoms are paid. So, on a tipoff from members of the public who suspected the strange movements in the area and the accounts of some of the victims of these criminals, we swung into action. On sighting us, these men of the underworld opened fire on my men, and we quickly retaliated and overpowered them with our superior firepower,” he stressed.

Ezeh disclosed that the combined security task force, set up by the Enugu State governor, Mr Peter Mbah, as a tactical squad against kidnappings and activities of unknown gunmen, had recorded milestones in policing the state and flushing out criminal elements.

“This is a gallant crack squad with the mandate to eliminate every form of threat in the state. We have recorded huge successes over the past months. You know our role is not to rush to the media to tell our story but to ensure that every citizen and resident of the state has peace.

“I can tell you that we have already neutralized over 7 criminal gangs who were mostly kidnappers and unknown gunmen. We are going after them. We are taking the battle to their doorsteps because the governor said we should not come back home if we don’t completely rid the state of threats.

“So we are on it. In fact, during our operations, we identified many criminal hideouts that serve as rogue premises where kidnap victims and dangerous weapons are kept. These places include New Artisan Market, Akwuke community, Akegbe-Ugwu, Four Corners, Awgu, Mgbowo, Emene, Eke and Afa in Udi and some parts of Isi Uzo local government. During rescue operations, we were able to neutralize over 30 of the kidnappers and recovered guns and valuables,” the police chief added.

The statement further stated that, residents in the state have called on Governor Mbah to go beyond arresting and hunting down the kidnappers to invoking his power as the chief security officer of the state through the demolition of all the properties harbouring the kidnappers.

According to them, the law empowers the state government to demolish buildings used for kidnap activities, including hotels and private facilities.

The statement further said, A senior lawyer, Chief Ani Iheanacho, who spoke to newsmen in Enugu, said the state has an existing criminal law which was amended in 2016 to accommodate a new section which empowers the governor to pull down structures used for kidnapping.

“We cannot continue like this. Yes, beyond going after the criminals, the governor must show both political and legal courage to go after properties used as hostage holding cells and bring them down irrespective of who the owner or owners are.

“The state must deter these criminals and those enabling their access to such buildings. That is what justice is all about. It’s justice to the kidnap victims; justice to the family of the victims, and justice to the society at large,” the legal practitioner submitted.

One of the rescued kidnap survivors, Dr Kate Pamela according to the statement said she was traumatized by the ugly experiences at the hands of the kidnappers.

“Each time I pass through that poultry, I feel I have been denied justice by still allowing it to operate. They kidnapped us and kept us there for five days. They even killed two of the victims because their families could only afford ten million naira each against the fifty million naira demanded. Notwithstanding that I was able to identify the bodies of three of the kidnappers when they were killed, I still feel that the area should be cleared.

“Government must ensure justice by turning that place to a landfill,” Dr Pamela said.

admin by — August 22, 2024 in Crime/Metro 0
Govt,Private Sector Partnership Best Approach To Tackle Nigeria’s Socio-Economic Ills- Gbajabiamila

Omobolanle Shosanya

Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to the President, has underscored the importance of collaboration between the government, private sector and well-meaning Nigerians in the quest to solving multifarious challenges confronting the country.

Gbajabiamila,who stated this on Wednesday in Abuja at the National Economic Dialogue, “Nigeria’s Economic Future: 25 Years Democracy and Beyond,” organised by the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG),said that the government cannot solve these challenges alone.

He emphasized the need for collaborative efforts in solving Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges.

He noted the inter-connectedness between democracy and economy, adding that Nigeria’s economic future is predicated on democracy.

He added: “Of course, it is the responsibility of the Federal, States and local Government Areas to find and implement necessary answers to the problems that confront us today.

“The government alone cannot define the future of any nation. All hands must be on deck. We just need to keep on pushing and pushing to solve these challenges.

“For us to have an economic future, it has to be predicated on democracy. The two are siamese twins.Nigeria belongs to us all. We have the responsibility to build it and leave a legacy which we will be proud of. It can only be achieved through joint efforts.”

Speaking,chairman of the NESG, Mr. Niyi Yusuf, acknowledged that in the last 25 years of Nigeria’democratic trajectory,that Nigeria has experienced significant transformations—politically, socially, and economically.

He said Nigeria has made strides in various sectors such as telecommunications, agriculture, and services reflecting, “our collective efforts to diversify our economy and create opportunities for millions of Nigerians.”

He,however, noted that the challenges that have persisted over the years due to policy inconsistencies, governance deficits, and economic vulnerabilities.

He said: “Businesses and entrepreneurs continue to suffer from the increasing cost of doing business, while citizens now suffer from rising cost of living.Poverty, unemployment, insecurity, and corruption are issues that continue to hinder our progress.

“The lessons we have learned from these challenges are clear: sustainable economic growth requires more than just policy changes; it demands a concerted effort to address the underlying systemic issues that have held us back.”

On the essence of the National Economic Dialogue, he said:”This Dialogue gives us an opportunity to take stock of our economic trajectory over the years, celebrate our successes, critically examine our shortcomings, and identify the impact of policy inconsistencies on our nation’s development.

“We must ask ourselves: How can we ensure that the gains we have made are not only preserved but also built upon?

“How can we build institutions, achieve policy consistency and continuity that will drive sustained economic growth?”

To shape a prosperous socio-economic future, the Chairman of NESG urged Nigerians to embrace collaboration as a fundamental principle.

According to him, “The challenges we face are complex and multifaceted, requiring the combined efforts of the public and private sectors, civil society, and international partners.

“We must work together to create an environment that fosters innovation, supports entrepreneurship, and attracts investment.This collaborative spirit must extend to all levels of government and across all sectors of society.

“In charting our economic trajectory, there are several strategic priorities that we must focus on. They economic diversification, human capital development, security and infrastructure development, good governance and transparency and inclusive growth.”

admin by — August 22, 2024 in News 0
Open Data Policy: NEITI Gets Belgium,Australia & Canada’s Support

Mohammed Shosanya

The Embassy of Belgium, Australia and Canadian High Commissions in Nigeria have pledged to support the Open data policy of Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative.

In a statement, Mrs Obiageli Onuorah, NEITI’s
Acting Director/Head Communications & Stakeholder Management, said the diplomats made the pledge after an inspection of the newly completed NEITI Data Center during a courtesy visit to NEITI House in Abuja.

The Ambassador of Belgium Mr Pieter Leenknegt, Australian High Commissioner Leilani Bin-Juda and the Canadian High Commissioner Jammie Christoff welcomed the Data Center project as an important milestone in the use of credible data to fight corruption in the extractive industry.

The diplomats pledged to support the NEITI Data Center with skills development, training and technical assistance.

The Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, welcomed the visit of the Ambassadors to NEITI House as an opportunity to deepen cooperation and partnership between NEITI and the diplomatic community in Nigeria.

He remarked: “As supporting countries to the EITI at the global level, your visit is a great opportunity to domesticate the support of your respective countries to the EITI at global levels to connect directly with Nigerian citizens who earnestly desire that the abundant natural resources in this country works for the benefit of all not just a few”.

He called for closer partnership between the diplomatic missions and NEITI to strengthen NEITI’s international affiliation under the global EITI.

“Your visit is a huge encouragement to us as an agency and an endorsement of our strong international affiliation and partnership with 57 other resource-rich countries. Dr Orji remarked.

He told the Ambassadors that the global transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources poses significant risks to countries that depend heavily on hydrocarbon-based natural resource-revenues for survival.

“Our country, Nigeria is heavily dependent on oil revenues for survival. Your visit is an opportunity to highlight the importance of partnership and cooperation between under developed, developing and developed countries which are all found within the EITI community to share knowledge, skills and technical support with our organization to help our government and citizens with timely policy decisions and strategies to deal with these complex challenges and unavoidable unfolding developments in the extractive sector”.

He explained that NEITI decision to build a Data Center to enable the agency support the reforms in the extractive industries with evidence-based decisions.

The Representatives of the National Working Group (NEITI Board) Ambassador Mathew Adoli pledged the support of the Board to deepening NEITI’s existing partnership and collaboration with diplomatic missions in Nigeria and international development partners to expand the scope of EITI implementation in the country.

On the role of the civil society, the representative of Civil Society Organisations on NEITI Board, Dr. Erisa Danladi Sarki identified the importance of sustainable advocacy to draw local and international attention to issues of gender and environment arising from oil, gas and mining exploration activities.

admin by — August 22, 2024 in News 0
Why Rivers LG Elections Won’t Hold- Okocha

Mohammed Shosanya

The Caretaker Committee Chairman of the All Progressives Congress in Rivers State, Chief Tony Okocha, has declared that the local government council elections billed for October 5 will not hold.

Okocha,who made the declaration at the party secretariat in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, during its expanded stakeholders meeting,explained that the development is due to ongoing litigation the electoral body was enmeshed in, instituted by the APC.

He said the APC was in court to stop the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission, RSIEC from conducting the elections because it failed to adhere to the legal stipulations that mandated it to conduct elections three months before the expiration of the outgone elected chairmen.

He said:“The topical issue to be discussed is the issue of is APC contesting elections on the 5th of October? We are in court and I won’t speak on any matter that’s in court. The much I can say to you and the course of action is to restrain the agencies that would conduct that elections that they announced behind us.

“My dear people, what they are doing now as we speak and 5th of October as they are talking about will not work. It will not work. You can’t go and conduct local government elections in Rivers State without a party like the APC, and am told too that PDP is not in the race.

“We were not part of the decision for an election on the 5th of October. We had gone on air on 19th of January to tell the RSIEC Chairman and the commission itself to commence the process of having elections. At that time, it was still within the ambits of the law of the state because the law says three months to the expiration of the tenures of the council that the electoral body should organise election, the process should commence, timetable released and all that and twenty one days inside that three months.

He noted that although the APC in the state had all it takes to participate and massively win in the proposed elections, it decided to shun it because the process was flawed to embarrass the APC.

“Let me tell you the reason we went to court, it’s not because we don’t have the number or we don’t have the strength. I can assure you and you know by yourself that we have men and women, caterpillars and bulldozers that can contest all the elections and win.

“We are saying that the processes should be seen to be transparent so that we don’t just go and work on hurdle thorns. That was why some of you were worried that something went viral even though it was a side talk but what do I care? I was only doing a whistle blower for that matter because I know that that election will not represent the interest or opinion of those who would vote. It is already stereotyped, the handout has already been written.”

He added:“We have been in party formations and party elections for many years in this state. They are just coming in and they need to learn from us how we succeeded. So if we want to go by good news, good approach. He would not succeed , we would not agree.”

“There was a day they said they had stakeholders meeting. I was not invited. The APC Rivers State was not invited to the stakeholders meeting where the decision for October 5th elections was taken. So we cannot participate in that because there was a deliberate plan to axe us and make us worthless. So we went to court.”

He stated that the party would only participate in the elections if the process made to be more transparent.

“We are not saying we won’t contest elections for those of you who they may have told you that, that’s not our contention. Our contention is until the processes that have been put in place or they want to put in place is in tandem with the law first and we are carried along in the entire arrangement as a party

“We won’t accept that. I won’t expose you to that kind of trauma where you go and spend your money even if we say we are going to assist you, some of you would sell land, some of you would sell house, some of you will do everything possible to generate funds and then we know that that fund you’re generating for that election will go into the dungeon, do you think that we should allow it?

Also speaking,the former Chairman of the APC in the state, Ojukaye Flag Amachree, urged the dissolved executives of the party in the state led by Chief Emeka Beke to accept the decision of the National Working Committee that dissolved it in good fate, adding that no court order can reverse the decision of the NWC concerning them.

“You know, as once the Chief Executive of this Party, the head of this party (APC) in Rivers State and what is happening now happened to me. You know, as chairman of this party, we had crisis under my leadership as well, we had the Magnus Abe faction, rhen Tony Okocha was on the other side.

“So we had all those issues and at some point in time, the national working committee of our party looked at the whole scenario in Rivers State and decided that we can’t be having all of these problems and for that reason, they are going to dissolve my executives and appoint Caretaker Committee. Did it not happen? I took it in good fate and went to my house.

Ojukaye added:“You know that Emeka Beke was my secretary then, so I know him very well, he knows that the highest body in this party is the NWC, that is why when I was told that my executives have been dissolved, I supported the appointed caretaker committee as a true party man and somebody who loves this party. That is what I expect my brother and former secretary to do also, this his antics won’t work..

“So my job here is to encourage you people and to say you are on the right track, the national working committee of the party has said is Tony Okocha that is our chairman, there is nothing more to say, even if you like go to United Nations and bring a court judgment, it won’t work.”

admin by — August 22, 2024 in Politics 0
NDDC Reaffirms Commitment To Environmental Protection,Management

Mohammed Shosanya

The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has reaffirmed its commitment to programmes and activities that will protect the environment, promote sustainable development and improve the quality of life for communities in the Niger Delta region.

The NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, stated this during a three-day retreat on Environmental Management and Competence Development organised for staff of the NDDC Directorate of Environmental Protection and Control at the Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort in Uyo.

Ogbuku, who was represented by the Akwa Ibom State representative on the NDDC Board, Apostle Abasiandikan Nkono, said that the retreat which focused on the theme: “Environmental Management and Competence Development: Nurturing Sustainability in the Workplace,” was thought provoking and germane.

A statement signed by Seledi Thompson-Wakama
Director,Corporate Affairs,quoted the NDDC’s boss as emphasizing the need for collaboration in the efforts to effectively manage environmental challenges in the Niger Delta region.

In his welcome address, the NDDC Director, Environmental Control and Protection, Engr. Onuoha Obeka, highlighted the critical role played by environmental management in the society.

He said: “The challenges we face today – climate change, resource depletion and biodiversity loss – demand our immediate attention and innovative solutions. Our collective efforts aim not only to enhance our understanding of these issues but also to equip us with the necessary competences to implement effective strategies in our respective fields.”

Obeka remarked that sustainability was no longer just an ideal, stating: “It is a necessity that must be integrated into every aspect of our economic activities. The workplace is a powerful arena where our choices can lead to profound change. By nurturing sustainability within it, we can drive positive outcomes that benefit our communities, economies and the environment.”

Presenting a paper entitled: “Sustaining the Niger Delta: Bridging Environmental Responsibility and Professional Growth: A Call to Action for a Sustainable Future,” an environmental scientist and lecturer at the University of Lagos, Professor Lucian Chukwu, analysed the impact of organic pollution and its devastating effects on ecosystems.

“Organic pollutants,” he explained, “are substances that originate from living organisms and can disrupt the balance of our environment. They are often by-products of agricultural practices, industrial discharges, and household wastes. Left unchecked, they can lead to contamination of soil and water, creating habitats where toxic microbes thrive.”

He described the Niger Delta as the heart-beat of Nigeria’s economy with rich natural resources and cultural heritage; mangrove forests that once covered about 7,000 square kilometers.

He lamented that over the years, there had been imbalance between harnessing the resources for economic growth and ensuring preservation of the environment, hence, the region was at a critical juncture, due to decades of oil exploration and inadequate regulation.

Addressing the issue of sustainability agenda, Prof Chukwu said it was necessary to create a future where the Niger delta’s natural resources were preserved for future generations, while also improving the quality of life for its residents.

To achieve this, he said, there was need for commitment, collaboration, and innovative solutions from development agencies such as the NDDC.

According to him, “a sustainable future for the Niger Delta, required prioritising professional development and investing in capacity-building initiatives to enhance skills and knowledge, in order to create a thriving and resilient Niger Delta.”

He also underlined the need to align professional goals with environmental responsibility, in order to foster a future where economic prosperity does not come at the expense of ecological integrity.

admin by — August 22, 2024 in Environment 0
SON Seeks Stricter Regulation To Stop Building Collapse

Omobolanle Shosanya

Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke,Director General and Chief Executive of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON),has advocated the need for stricter regulation and increased collaboration among stakeholders to address the nagging issue of incessant building collapse in Nigeria.

He reiterated the need for a comprehensive approach to building collapses in Nigeria to prevent repeated incidents from occurring in the future and to ensuring the safety and integrity of structures across the nation.

A statement on Wednesday issued by Mrs. Foluso Bolaji, Director, Public Relations, SON, said the Director General of SON gave the suggestion,as a result of incessant spate of building collapse across the country and the wanton destruction of lives and property on each occurrence.

Okeke stated that compliance to Specifications and Codes of Practice in the Standards by regulators and service providers in the sector plays an important role in reinstating the eroding confidence of Nigerians in the Nigerian building industry.

He said following investigations carried out by the SON, the cause of incessant building collapse was attributed to poor structural designs, quackery and unprofessionalism and inadequate or lack of soil testing.

Other causes,according to the statement, include poor construction practices and procedures, unapproved construction, wrong demolition process, lack of maintenance, negligence, use of substandard materials (steel reinforcement bars) as well as poor drainage around the collapsed buildings.

He stated that the Organization on its part has produced 168 Standards and Codes of Practice for the building and construction industry since 2004 for contractors to implement during construction.

These standards, he outlined, include Nigerian Industrial Standard (NIS) 117: 2004 Specification for Steel Bars for the Reinforcement of Concrete, Nigerian Industrial Standard (NIS) 499: 2004 Standard for Iron and Steel, Nigerian Industrial Standard (NIS) 588: 2007 Testing Hardened Concrete Part 1:Method for Determination of the Compressive Strength of Concrete Cores, Nigerian Industrial Standard (NIS) 585: 2007 Standard for Concrete Admixtures – Part 1 – Specification for Accelerating Admixtures, Retarding Admixtures and Water Reducing Admixtures, Nigerian Industrial Standard (NIS) 156:1982 Standard Method for Testing Fresh Concrete and Nigerian Industrial Standard (NIS) ISO 41001:2020 Facility Management System Standard amongst others.

He said, SON had established regulatory powers enshrined in the SON Act to regulate locally manufactured products through its Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programe (MANCAP) and its pre-shipment verification of conformity to standards for imported goods through the Standards Organisation of Nigeria Conformity Assessment Programme (SONCAP).

Other Initiatives, he explained, include the Product Authentication Mark (PAM) which gives the Consumer the powers to verify the authenticity of a product before purchase.

According to him, “Other initiatives taken was the setting up of the SON’s task force Special Intervention to Standardise Steel Reinforcement Bars of where stakeholders in the sector, were engaged and a full-scale nationwide enforcement in factories and marketplaces was undertaken and as a result culpable dealers were sanctioned in line with the provisions of the SON Act No.14 2015.”

admin by — August 22, 2024 in Property 0