News From Nigeria
January 27, 2024
Press Statement
…Tasks Tinubu on Security
The national leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) demands for the immediate release of its Lagos State Chapter Chairman, Hon. Philip Olabode Aivoji, who was abducted on his way to Lagos from Ibadan, Oyo State capital after a very important Party assignment.
The PDP is seriously concerned about Hon. Aivoji’s well-being and safety especially considering his age and health status.
Our Party condemns the distressing spate of kidnap for ransom, mindless killings, marauding of communities and other acts of terrorism across the country under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s watch and calls for urgent action to ensure the release of all those held in kidnappers’ dens in various parts of the country.
The alarming situation is an agonizing confirmation that the security intelligence, command, operation and coordination structure under President Tinubu has collapsed.
It is lamentable that despite widespread outcry by Nigerians, the Tinubu administration remains insensitive, nonchalant and laidback on security matters.
Despite the killing of over 5000 Nigerians with the maiming and kidnapping of many more since he took office on May 29, 2023, President Tinubu has not taken any concrete Presidential measure to stem the carnage beyond issuing insipid press statements and extemporaneous security orders whenever an attack occurs.
More heartrending is that the Tinubu-led APC administration continues to play to the gallery by mouthing false assurances while many Nigerians are languishing in kidnappers’ dens and families grieving over the daily killing of our citizens by terrorists.
Our Party however appreciates and commends the efforts of our gallant men and women in uniform for their patriotism, courage and determination in the fight against terrorism, kidnapping and other social vices plaguing our country despite daunting challenges.
The PDP charges the security high command to take urgent steps to secure the release of Hon. Aivoji and all other Nigerians trapped in abductors’ camps in various parts of the country.
Our Party calls on Nigerians to be at alert and continue to support our security agencies in their efforts to safeguard our nation at this very critical time.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
UNDERSTANDING THE SCHISM BETWEEN THE ORODJE OF OKPE KINGDOM AND THE OKPE UNION BY PROF. O. IGHO NATUFE, PRESIDENT GENERAL, OKPE UNION WORLD WIDE
January 25, 2024
Introduction
On January 10, 2024, the College of Physical Education Mosogar chapter of the National Association of Okpe Students (NAOS) organized an Okpe Cultural Day to promote Okpe Culture and Okpe Identity. They invited the National Leadership of the legitimate Okpe Union as well as the illegal Okpe Union imposed by HRM Orhue l, Orodje of Okpe Kingdom. We gathered that severe pressures were exerted on the organizers of the Okpe Cultural Day event by some Palace Ekakuro, ordering them not to invite the legitimate Okpe Union. Barr. Ehensiri Akpederin, the General Secretary of Okpe Union worldwide was there to represent the legitimate Okpe Union. So also was Okakuro Joseph Aboze with his colleagues from the illegal group. Okakuro Aboze expressed his disappointment at the presence of Barr. Akpederin, and told the students that he and his group would depart from the venue after his address, explaining that they would not sit at the same venue with, according to him, a group that had taken the Orodje to court and planned to send the Okpe Monarch to prison. In his attempt to establish the supremacy of the Orodje, he declared: “There is no Union in Okpe without Okpe Kingdom”.
Characteristically, Okakuro Aboze focused on the effect and not the cause of the schism between the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom and the Okpe Union. He did not brief the Mosogar students and fellow Okpe nationals present at the event, about the series of peace initiatives that were aborted by the Orodje. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to debunk the propaganda of the illegal group led by Okakuro Aboze by providing a step-by-step review of the schism. But before going into the details, let us start with Okakuro Aboze’s falsification of Okpe History when he declared that: “There is no Union in Okpe without Okpe Kingdom”.
A kingdom exists because there was a Nation that produced it. Thus, a kingdom cannot be superior to the Nation that birthed it. This is particularly true of the Okpe Kingdom where the Okpe Nation congregates to elect one of its male citizens as the Orodje via a democratic electoral process. The sovereignty of an Orodje does not grant him an absolute or dictatorial power or authority, but is derived from the results of the electoral process on behalf of the Okpe Nation. When the four princely brothers, our ancestors – Orhue, Orhoro, Evbreke, and Esezi – decided to establish the Okpe Kingdom, they did so from the bowel of the Okpe Nation. Unfortunately, the kingdom under the first Orodje collapsed in 1779 leading to an interregnum of 166 years. (See https://okpeunionng.net/orodjes-of-okpe-kingdom/) During this period, there were no Orodjes because there was no kingdom, but Okpe Nation continued to exist and represented by power brokers in several autonomous Okpe communities.
Thanks to the Okpe Union, the Okpe Kingdom in the modern era was resuscitated in 1945. From its inception in 1930, the Okpe Union launched a campaign for the restoration of the Okpe Kingdom, irrespective of the opposition of several influential Okpe leaders who were apprehensive about the likelihood of our having another dictatorship akin to the rule of HRM Esezi l. It was not until 1943 that Okpe leaders acquiesced to the demands of the Okpe Union for the resuscitation of the Okpe monarchy, after the Sapele land case which got to the West African Court of Appeal (WACA).The invitation by the British colonial government for the revival of the Udogun Okpe in the late 1920s was for the purpose of its indirect rule policy. It is an incontrovertible fact that the Okpe Union birthed the Okpe Kingdom in the modern era that produced HRM Esezi ll (1945 – 1966); HRM Orhoro l (1972-2004); and HRM Orhue l (2006 – present). This brief narrative succinctly demonstrates that Okpe Union existed in Okpe Nation “without Okpe Kingdom”as the Okpe Nation thrived as several autonomous communities with solidarity “without Okpe Kingdom”. I am sure that Okakuro Aboze is aware of this Historical fact, but elected to falsify it in order to propagate a false thesis to mislead the Okpe Nation. We therefore reiterate that there is a modern Okpe Monarchy because there was an Okpe Union in an Okpe Nation that fought for its restoration in 1945, after almost 200 years of interregnum. The Okpe Monarchy was not restored to enthrone dictatorship and/or an absolute monarchy, as feared by the influential senior Okpe leaders that were opposed to the restoration of the Okpe Kingdom. In fact, to underline the symbolic role of the Okpe Union in Okpe History, Okakuro Senator David O. Dafinone, the Master of Ceremony at the coronation of HRM Orhue l, on July 26, 2006, asked the Okpe Union three times in Okpe Language:
“Okpe Union, are i hweri ta ghene ahẹ Felix Mujakperuo siyẹ aga-ẹ Orodje Okpe?”
The above means in English Language: “Okpe Union do you agree that Felix Mujakperuo be crowned as Orodje of Okpe Kingdom?” Okpe Union responded Yes on each occasion.
The Orodje’s Coup d’état
The Okakuro Robert Onome-led NEC of the Okpe Union was ridden with internal crisis from the day of its election on November 19, 2016. The Orodje had made a couple of attempts to reconcile the warring parties. At a meeting he had convened at the Palace on Sunday, October 3, 2020, the Orodje announced his dissolution of the NEC and barred its members from contesting for elections for two years and as well announced an Interim Committee. I had spoken with the Orodje on September 24 and September 29 before the purported dissolution of October 3, 2020. I initiated the September 24th call to discuss the NEC crisis, while the September 29th call was initiated by the Orodje primarily to seek my opinion on why the Okpe Union of North America (OUNA) was not a branch of the Okpe Union in Nigeria. He sought for my opinion because he knew I was the Founding President of OUNA before his coronation. We hosted him at OUNA’s 3rd AGM at College Park, MD, USA, on August 31 – September 3, 2007 where he delivered a landmark Keynote Address, emphatically stressing the uniqueness and distinctiveness of Okpe as an ethnic nationality in Delta State. (See https://okpeunionng.net/tradition-and-governance/)
Moments after the Orodje dissolved the NEC on October 3, 2020 I ranged him to register my opinion followed by a memo to him on October 5, 2020 in which I offered him a pathway to resolving the deepening crisis occasioned by the October 3 dissolution.
Prior to October 3, 2020, I made spirited efforts to mediate the internal crisis in NEC. I held a series of discussions with Okakuro Onome and Barr. Ehensiri Akpederin. They were the President General and General Secretary, respectively at that time. The discussions were progressing well as both parties agreed to participate at the Annual General Assembly (AGA) slated for November 14, 2020, at the Okpe Hall, Sapele. Unfortunately, further discussions were thwarted by the Orodje’s purported dissolution of October 3. However, my memo to the Orodje on October 5, 2020 continued my peace initiatives. For the first time, I am making excerpts from my memo to the Orodje public, because of the series of enquiries I have received from concerned Okpe nationals asking to know the role I had played at securing peace between the Orodje and the Okpe Union, long before I was elected the President General of the Okpe Union. It should be stressed that, immediately after the October 3, 2020 event, two Okpe nationals based in the Diaspora signalled their intentions to contest for the President General position. Their intentions were warmly received in several Okpe platforms.
I have provided below long excerpts from my memo of October 5, 2020 to the Orodje seeking for a peaceful resolution of the schism. Referring to the internal NEC crisis in the Okpe Union between 2016 and 2020, I wrote to the Orodje as follows:
“These series of crises completely paralyzed the Okpe Union during the past four years, thus denying Okpe a voice in the community of ethnic nationalities in both Delta State and in Nigeria. We became irrelevant in Delta State where we are recognized as the most populous mono ethnic nationality”.
“As concerned Okpe nationals most of us were worried at the purposeless leadership of the NEC. When we spoke on September 24, 2020, you informed me that you had instructed your Secretary to invite the leaders of NEC and other Okpe leaders to a meeting at the Palace on October 3, 2020. We talked briefly about the forthcoming Annual General Assembly (AGA) of the Union scheduled for November 14, 2020, at Okpe Hall, in Sapele. I recall suggesting that you send a senior Okakuro to observe the proceedings on November 14. The decision of the October 3 meeting at the Palace was a surprise to most Okpe nationals. I rang and spoke with you moments after the meeting ended. This is the subject of my memo to you. It is not my intention to challenge your decision, but rather to appeal for a reconsideration of certain aspects of the decision. In doing so, I will attempt to speak truth to power while respecting your position as the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom. I will do so as both a cousin and friend”.
I continued:
“The Dissolution Decree, as I have christened the decision of October 3, is akin to a military coup. Without prejudice to the good intentions of the decision, there is a grave concern about the precedent setting inherent in the decision. For example, the barring of members of the dissolved NEC from contesting in a new election raises fundamental issues about their human rights vis-à-vis the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Has a prima facia case been established against these former NEC members? Can this decision be sustained in a Court of Law? While it may be valid under an absolute monarchical system, I suggest that we examine its validity in a non-monarchical system like the Federal Republic of Nigeria. As I alluded to above, the decision establishes precedence for future Orodjes to adjudicate disputes in any Okpe organization. It removes the power and authority of internal conflict resolution from the respective organs of these organizations and drags the Orodje into political interference in the management of these organizations. My fear is, once this becomes an established modus operandi, the Orodje becomes a fair game for politicians and political parties. This will pull us into a system anchored on the divine rights of Kings engaged in a perpetual struggle vis-à-vis the peoples’ voice with severe consequences for democracy building and constitutionality”.
“Okpe Union is a members’ only organization whose members belong to respective branches or regions. It is observed that only three out of nine persons on the Interim Committee are members of the Okpe Union: Professor EmurobomeIdolor, Chief Barr. Bright Igbako and Professor Kenneth Eni. The establishment of the Interim Committee and its composition is regarded in several quarters as an attempt to make the Okpe Union an administrative arm of the Palace. I hope this is incorrect, for it will be injurious to both Okpe Kingdom and the Okpe Union”.
“The Constitution of the Okpe Union provides justification for the scheduled AGA of November 14, 2020 as a viable occasion to resolve the Union’s crisis. We have endured the poor governance and shambles of the dissolved NEC for almost four years. Okpe Union members and stakeholders in Nigeria and the Diaspora succeeded in raising more than 1,000,000 naira (One Million Naira) within 36 hours to host the AGA, surpassing the AGA Planning Committee’s budget of 950,000.00 naira (Nine Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira). The main agenda item is to elect a caretaker committee that will appoint an electoral committee towards the election of a new NEC proposed for early or mid-March 2021. It is my understanding that 30 out of 32 branches and regions have registered to attend the AGA. It was clear that the people had spoken and prepared to reorganize and rebuild a viable Okpe Union. My plea, Umogu, is for you to utilize the existing structure of the Union in facilitating the emergence of a new and purposeful Okpe Union. It is instructive that you dissolved the NEC and NOT the Okpe Union”.
“Since the venue and funds for the AGA have been secured, I recommend the following for your due considerations.
“Umogu, Umogu, Umogu, it is my sincere plea that you accept the above recommendations. By doing so, your role in saving the Okpe Union from disintegration and/or fragmentation will be inscribed in GOLD for posterity.
May your reign be long, peaceful and prosperous.
God bless you”.
Attempts at a Resolution
Before the election of the current NEC on May 15, 2021, which I am privileged to lead, and since then, NEC has engaged in the search for peace on several occasions
Prior to the intervention of the Rev. Dr. Osume-led Okpe Peace Reconciliation Committee in the search for peace, NEC had gone to court in Sapele praying the Court to restrain members of the Orodje-imposed Interim Executive Committee and its agents from parading themselves as leaders of the Okpe Union. When Rev. Dr. Osume intimated us about his committee’s peace mission, he requested that we withdraw the case from court so as to give peace a chance. We obliged. However, immediately we withdrew the case from court, the Palace wrote to the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) requesting them to recognize the Interim Executive Committee. This was a plot to oust the democratically elected NEC from CAC recognition. Thus, it was obvious that the intention of the Orodje-imposed Interim Executive Committee was not to seek a peaceful resolution to the conflict but to gain time in its treacherous move to get CAC to recognise them and register their appointed new Board of Trustees and prevent the democratically elected NEC of the Okpe Union from being recognised by the CAC. Faced with this treachery, we elected to file a suit at a Federal High Court in Lagos. HRM Orhue l, the Prof. Idolor-led Interim Executive Committee and the CAC were served as defendants in the case.
To demonstrate the insincerity of the Orodje-imposed committee in respecting the court process, they obtained a court order in Abuja to appoint an illegal Board of Trustees, without disclosing to the Abuja Federal High Court that they were already defendants in a Lagos Federal High Court on the same subject. Furthermore, we already lodged an application at the Lagos Federal High Court with a similar prayer much earlier and known to the CAC, the Orodje and the illegal Interim Executive Committee. They surreptitiously acquired a certificate of incorporation; an issue that is being handled via an appropriate channel. It is worth noting that the judgment of the Federal High Court, Lagos has nullified the Board of Trustees appointed by the Illegal Interim Committee and all other actions by it.
Exposing the Falsifications
Even after the judgment of the Federal High Court ruled in favour of the Okpe Union on January 19, 2023, we still opened a window for an out-of-court settlement, on the proviso that the illegal group respects and complies with the Judgment. Interestingly, Okakuro Aboze did not mention this to the NAOS students in Mosogar on January 10, 2024. For example, he did not inform them that, upon his receipt of the Federal High Court Judgment of January 19, 2023, he and his colleagues informed the Udogun-Okpe of their decision to “step aside” from their illegal status so as to allow the Judgment to reign. But, according to him, Udogun-Okpe rejected their decision to “step aside”. By his own revelation, he and his group decided to continue playing their roles as sycophants because they lacked the courage to speak truth to power. He made this revelation on August 9, 2023 at a peace meeting convened by Okakuro Oghenevworo Jemikalajah and two other Ekakuro. Okakuro Aboze and Mr. Ochuko Abegbe represented the illegal group, while the Okpe Union was represented by Messrs Okpako Ayaruja, Kingsley Ehensiri Akpederin, Esq. and Dr. Lucky Akpere. While he recognized the grounds for the victory of the democratic Okpe Union as legal, he however pleaded that his illegal group be allowed to remain in office for the first four years before they would hand over to the democratically elected NEC of Okpe Union. We rejected his conditions for resolving the conflict as they tantamount to crowing the illegal group with a toga of legitimacy. We insisted on their compliance with the judgment of the Federal High Court, which declared that the Orodje lacked the power and authority to dissolve the NEC of the Okpe Union and impose an illegitimate leadership on the Okpe Union
It is important to state that, since the October 3, 2020 purported dissolution of the NEC of Okpe Union, the Orodje and his imposed illegal group label us and those who support the truth as “dissidents” and “enemies” of the Okpe Kingdom, simply for disagreeing with the illegal dissolution of the NEC. Some persons in a bid to weaken the support base of the Union have been promising members of Okpe Union and other Okpe citizens that are supporting Okpe Union, that the Orodje would recommend them for employment/appointment in the Delta State Government, if they withdrew their support. We consider this a despicable act as it transforms the Orodje into an employment agent for the Delta State Government. Interestingly, in 1994, Ms. Liz Truss called for the abolishment of the British Monarchy. She was NOT declared an enemy of the United Kingdom and neither was she denied access to gainful employment. On September 6, 2022, she was invited by Queen Elizabeth ll to become the 3rd female Prime Minister of Britain. It is imperative that we as enlightened Okpe nationals guide Okpe traditional institutions along the path of democracy and reject any tendency towards absolute monarchy.
Why did the Orodje shift from his strong position as a promoter of Okpe as a distinct ethnic nationality that he brilliantly articulated on September 1, 2007 (See https://okpeunionng.net/tradition-and-governance/) to become an apologist for Urhobo ethnic nationality by permitting his Udogun Okpe–in-Council to propagate a false thesis that “Okpe Kingdom is one of the twenty four (24) Kingdoms of contemporary Federated Urhobo Nationality of Delta Central Senatorial District.” (OPEN LETTER TO HIS EXCELLENCY, SEN. DR. ARTHUR IFEANYI OKOWA, GOVERNOR OF DELTA STATE. RE: RECOGNITION OF OKPE AS A DISTINCT ETHNIC NATIONALITY, VANGUARD, Lagos, Nigeria, July 13, 2021, p.20.)? This was not only a blatant distortion of Okpe History but a regrettable public denial of Okpe Identity. History will Judge if this seismic shift was influenced by the Orodje’s personal interest or by Okpe national interest.
Commenting on an article entitled “IS OKPE STILL URHOBO?” that was posted on the Okpe People’s Forum (WhatsApp) platform on November 28, 2023, two erudite Okpe sons responded in strong defence of Okpe Identity. Barr. Ehensiri Akpederin declared: “When the leadership of a people claim the identity of a neighbouring nation for political correctness, they have wittingly or unwittingly opted to destroy their own identity, language, arts and the self esteem of the people of their nation or ethnicity. May the Okpe Nation be saved from betrayers”. Prof. Kenneth Eni opined in that same platform that: “Well, it’s only a few Okpe people who do not know their roots that will trumpet Okpe as Urhobo. The Urhobo people have not really considered Okpe as Urhobo. This is not coming as a surprise to me. The more Okpe is not included in this type of affair, the better for the identity struggle”.
Concluding Remarks
The purported dissolution of the democratically elected NEC of the Okpe Union, by the Orodje on October 3, 2020, has introduced a divide in Okpe Nation. Note that the Orodje’s purported dissolution took place 42 days before the scheduled AGA/Meeting of the Okpe Union to elect a new NEC. It was a stratagem to enforce the conversion of Okpe Union as one of the Administrative Units of the palace under the Orodje’s control, a process which he had put in place in an organogram of Okpe Kingdom administration in 2019. This became evident in August 2021 when the head of the interim regime he imposed declined to participate in a mediation process on the ground that he would only participate if instructed by the Orodje. It became obvious that the Orodje’s decision of October 3, 2020 was primarily to obliterate any semblance of checks and balances in the Okpe Kingdom. This he hoped to achieve by paralysing the capability of the Okpe Union via its conversion to an administrative unit of the Palace, a plot which will deny Okpe citizens a voice in Okpe Nation. Since 1945 the Okpe Union has been that force for checks and balances in the system. The Orodje’s policy is to gradually concentrate power under his ambit and steer Okpe Nation into an autocratic/dictatorial polity. The current drift towards dictatorship does not augur well for the peaceful growth and development of the Okpe Nation. If the influential Okpe elders that opposed the resuscitation of the Okpe Monarchy were alive to witness this current drift, it is only best to imagine what their thoughts would be.
Unfortunately, very unfortunately, the first Orodje of Okpe, Esezi l abandoned the democratic structure and embraced absolute monarchy, an action which led to his demise and ushered in a period of almost 200 years interregnum of the Okpe monarchy. HRM Orhue l’s action of October 3, 2020 is a sad throw-back to the medieval concept of the “divine rights of kings” which challenges the fundamental thrust of democratic practice in Nigeria and in Okpe Nation. It also ridicules the basis of the democratic election process that the Orodje cultivated during his campaign for the Orodjeship in 2004-2006. This prompted a prominent Okpe Scholar/Journalist to lament in January 2022:
“I worry for Africa and Nigerians. More for the Okpe who are still buried in the womb of medieval mentality”. (An Okpe Scholar/Journalist, January 15, 2022.)
While the Orodje’s action is challenged by a group of pro-democracy Okpe nationals, a pro-absolute monarchy group is propagating the deceased medieval concept of the “divine rights of kings.” This division caused by the Orodje’s intrusion into the administration of the Okpe Union has facilitated an inimical atmosphere injurious to peace, law and order in Okpe Nation. Several Okpe belonging to the pro-democracy group are being harassed and intimidated by some members of the pro-absolute monarchy group whose source of authority is left to conjecture. This is reminiscence of events in the (then) Soviet Union when scores of Soviet citizens, at the minutest of criticism framed in Marxist-Leninist prism, were labelled “dissidents and revisionists”, arrested and incarcerated in the infamous gulag system of imprisonment scattered across the Soviet Union. Interestingly, the pro-absolute monarchy group has categorized the Okpe Union members as “mischievous” and “dissidents” for speaking truth to power while some Ekakuro have threatened several members that the Orodje would cause their arrests if they continued supporting the Okpe Union. Since the Mosogar NAOS Okpe Cultural Day event, we have gathered from various sources close to the Orodje, that the Palace is contemplating to either ban NAOS and/or establish a counter Okpe students association to be controlled by the Palace. It is preposterous that the Palace will conceive of banning NAOS that it did not establish or to consider establishing a counter Okpe students association. It is baffling that this is the Palace’s approach to building a strong Okpe Nation. How much has the Palace contributed to NAOS activities in the past 17 years?
A polity that does not accommodate dissenting views forfeits the rights to be referred to as a democracy. It is within this prism that, for example, citizens assess the performance of their political and traditional leaders, including in Okpe Nation. The dividends of democracy that leaders frequently pronounce imply a basket of essentials that includes good governance, demonstrable accountability, and dialogue with constituents, responsible management of public wealth, respect for contending views, etc. When regime regulators and their praise singers stifle open debate on socio-political issues, they render democratic institutions impotent and cause serious injury to peace and development in the polity. Just as we wrestle with political leadership at all tiers of government on this existential challenge, it is imperative that we do the same with our traditional leadership. Failure to do so is hypocritical and mere sycophancy.
Unfortunately, History is replete with occasions where hypocrites and sycophants gain the attention of political and traditional leaderships in prosecuting citizens that dare to speak truth to power. We witness this appalling phenomenon in both democratic and dictatorial polities. The unjustly prosecuted become respected citizens following the expiration of the previous regimes and the hypocrites and sycophants become vicious critics of the expired regimes which they had hitherto praised to high Heavens. Thus, sycophants and hypocrites are always ready to change their tunes when the regimes they mislead cease to exist. Like Nigeria, the failed giant of Africa, we are witnessing the failure of Okpe to exert itself as a giant in Delta State. Are we to achieve this laudable historical mission by hiding under the identity of another ethnic nationality?
Regarding Okpe Nation, when it is articulated that the “words of the Orodje must be obeyed” and opposing views are characterized as “mischievous” and “dissident,” then it is obvious that we are encouraging autocracy and dictatorship to reign. Democratic tenets are disregarded and mediocrity, in most cases, is enthroned. Fortunately, the nature of the Okpe Monarchy does not historically reflect absolute monarchy, as in the making of the throne of the Orodje; the four Ruling Houses who take turns to produce the occupant of the throne designed a limited office as against that of the Oba of Benin, for example, which is absolute. While we, members of Okpe Union, revere HRM Orhue l, Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, it must be emphasised that this reverence empowers us to also speak truth to him. Our reverence does not mean we should be sycophants and hypocrites.
Finally, it must be noted and for the avoidance of doubt, the Federal High Court, Lagos Division, in its judgment delivered on January 19, 2023, on the Okpe Union Autonomy Suit (Suit No. FHC/L/CS/603/2022) filed by the democratically elected National Executive Council, clearly upheld the autonomy of the Okpe Union as its founding fathers had intended it for the ordinary Okpe man to have a voice in the affairs of the Okpe Nation.
God bless the Okpe Union.
God bless the Okpe Nation.
God bless the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom.
Prof. O. Igho Natufe
EMAIL EDITOR: henryebi@yahoo.com
Call Editor: 08036977194
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila, has urged election observer missions and monitors in Nigeria to get balanced views by speaking to a broad range of stakeholders before making their conclusions on the outcome of the forthcoming general elections.
He noted that being a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural, and multi-religious country, different people would naturally have different biases and push opinions that, though they represented their interests, might not necessarily be correct.
Gbajabiamila, who spoke when a delegation of the European Union Election Observation Mission to Nigeria visited him at the National Assembly in Abuja on Friday, stated that reports on election outcomes could only reflect what truly transpired when observer missions engaged with multiple stakeholders.
The delegation was led by Mr Barry Andrews.
For instance, the Speaker said there were 18 political parties contesting various elective positions, beginning on February 25.
He added that among the contestants, there were those who, by his assessment, were frontline contenders, others with their areas of strength and so on.
Gbajabiamila advised the mission to speak to not only every political party but also to as many stakeholders as possible, adding that this would help shape the reliability of any report on election outcomes this year.
The Speaker assured the delegation that Nigeria was fully prepared for the elections and had made every possible arrangement for the process to be successful.
“We are prepared for it, and those saddled with the responsibility, from Mr. President, the National Assembly, INEC, the political parties, to all the other stakeholders along the chain, we are all ready to make the votes count.”
“The electoral law is in place. We have done all we needed to do, and now we have to wait and see how things pan out.
“Election is a process that leads to the final day. It’s very complex, but at the same time it can be very simple, depending on the attitude of the actors”, Gbajabiamila added.
He also told the delegation that the use of technology this time around was an added advantage, which INEC would deploy to fast-track the process.
“We are hoping there will be no problems in the area of deployment of technology and also security issues, we hope not to worry about it much”, he said.
The Speaker informed the group that an area of concern remained the collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVC), which he said was still not very high, compared to the number of registered voters.
However, he told the visitors that sensitisation was ongoing and “it is our firm belief that the number of PVC collections will be ramped up way before the elections proper.”
On the part of the National Assembly, Gbajabiamila said the Legislature did much to improve the electoral law to expand the opportunities for participation by many Nigerians.
He stated that the Legislature, particularly the House, had hoped that ‘Direct Primaries’ would be captured in the law as the main method of picking political party candidates in order to transfer the power of decision-making to the majority of party members, but the move suffered a setback.
“Nonetheless, there is no law that is perfect. We have come a long way with the current law and it is work in progress for our electoral system”, the Speaker further said.
Earlier, Andrews, told Gbajabiamila that the EU Mission was happy to be invited to observe the polls, just as it had done on seven previous occasions.
Andrews assured Gbajabiamila that the body had its work cut out and had a reliable data-collection methodology to give a report on the outcome of the polls.
He informed the Speaker that the body would formally unveil its work plan at a news conference on Monday in Abuja, while it would release a preliminary report on the elections two days after the conclusion of voting.
Osun election tribunal verdict: Gbajabiamila congratulates Oyetola, says people’s Mandate finally restored
The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila has congratulated the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Osun State governorship election held last year, Oyetola Adegboyega, on his victory at the election tribunal.
Gbajabiamila said the tribunal verdict was a welcome development and a fair deal for the people of Osun State who stood behind Oyetola to return for the second time.
With the judgment, the Speaker noted that APC remains the party to beat at all times, especially during the forthcoming general elections.
Saying that the people of Osun State have been vindicated by the verdict, Gbajabiamila called on all APC members in Osun and across the country to remain law-abiding and brace up for the general elections.
Speaker Gbajabiamila was glad that the Osun governorship election tribunal was convinced that indeed there were anomalies during the election, which is why it restored the people’s mandate.
He urged Oyetola to be magnanimous in victory at the end of the whole process.
Gbajabiamila condoles Gov. Sule over son’s death
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila, has condoled with the Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi A. Sule over the death of his son, Hassan A. Sule.
Gbajabiamila expressed shock at the death of the young Hassan, whom he described as a promising and respectful young man.
The Speaker said he was pained that the governor lost a son who would have been counted as one of the leaders of tomorrow owing to his education and training.
“I received the news of the passing of Hassan A. Sule with rude shock. Here was a young man who was ready to take after his father as a leader.
“It is painful when a father loses his son, especially a young, promising one like Hassan. But as believers, we cannot question our Creator.
“As painful and devastating as the death of Hassan is, we find solace in the fact that he had a good upbringing and lived up to the expectations of not just his parents but also of society as a whole.”
“I pray that Allah (SWT) will rest his soul peacefully and give His Excellency, Governor Abdullahi Sule and his entire family, especially Hassan’s mother, the fortitude to bear this painful death,” Gbajabiamila said.
2023: GOV AKEREDOLU CANVASSES VOTES FOR TINUBU, JIMOH IBRAHIM, OTHER APC CANDIDATES IN ONDO SOUTH
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, CON on Monday urged the people of Southern Senatorial District of the State to vote for the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates in the forthcoming general elections.
Governor Akeredolu said the party parades the best candidates from the Presidential hopeful, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his running mate, Senator Kashim Shettima, the Senatorial candidate, Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim and the three House of Representatives candidates as well as the nine House of Assembly candidates in the Senatorial district.
The campaign rally held at Methodist Primary School, Okitipupa was attended by a huge crowd of party supporters and members.
The Governor was received into the venue by party members amidst pomp and pageantry.
Arakunrin Akeredolu said only candidates of the APC can deliver good governance to the people of the State and the Country at large.
He assured that Tinubu will fulfill his electoral promises, adding that he has track records and experience to lead the country.
The Governor also called on the people of Ondo South Senatorial District to elect Jimoh Ibrahim as the Senator representing the district.
According to him, the Senatorial candidate is well equipped and prepared to provide quality representation for the people of the district.
Governor Akeredolu equally canvassed votes for the House of Representatives candidates of the party in the three Federal Constituencies in the Senatorial District.
The three House of Representatives Candidates include: Prince Jimi Odimayo, Okitipupa/ Irele Federal Constituency; Donald Ojogo, Ilaje/Ese-Odo Federal Constituency; and Hon. Festus Adefiranye, Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo/Odigbo Federal Constituency.
Equally, the House of Assembly Candidates are: Akinsuroju Nelson, Ile Oluji/Okeigbo Constituency; Ifabiyi Olatunji, Odigbo Constituency 1; Babatunde Fashonu Odigbo Constituency 2; Ogunlano Christopher , Irele Constituency; Ayebusiwa Chris
Okitipupa Constituency 1; Gbegudu Ololade
Okitipupa Constituency 2; Akinruntan Abayomi
Ilaje Constituency 1; Fayemi Olawumi
Ilaje Constituency 2 ; and Messiah Oluwatoyin Allen, Ese Odo Constituency.
Governor Akeredolu also presented the Flag of the party to all the Candidates at the rally.
The Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa said the administration of Governor Akeredolu has done well in the state, stressing that the people should vote enmass for APC in the forthcoming elections.
One of the leaders of the party in the South, Chief Olusola Oke vowed that the people will resist traitors and vote against them in the elections.
He assured Governor Akeredolu that the party in the Southern Senatorial district will return massive votes for the APC and its candidates.
Chairman of the party in the State, Engr. Ade Adetimehin said the people of the district has demonstrated love by coming out in their large number to attend the rally.
He called on them to translate the love into votes on Election Day, noting that all candidates of the party should be voted for across board.
Adetimehin also received over 2000 members of the People Democratic Party into the APC. They were led by Akinyomoro Aye and Eniyanwumi Sunday.
The decampees pledged to work for the victory of the APC in the coming elections.
The rally was also attended by the Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Samuel Aderoboye; Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu; Members of the State executive council from the South; Local Government Chairmen from the South, Members of the Party’s State Working Committee; National Assembly members; and other stakeholders.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
January 23, 2023.
PRESS STATEMENT
Osun Election Tribunal: Akeredolu Hails Judgement, Says The Will Of The People Prevailed
The Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, CON, has hailed the judgment of the Osun State Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Osogbo, which declared Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola as the winner of the July 16 Osun Guber poll.
Governor Akeredolu said the judgement reflects the will of the people of the state who voted massively for the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Oyetola in the election.
According to the Governor, the Tribunal judgement has again restored the hope of a common man and reinforced confidence in the judiciary.
“We received with delight, the news of the Osun State Election Petition Tribunal which declared Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola as winner of the July 16 governorship election in the State.
“This is indeed a victory for democracy. No doubt, the judgment will further consolidate and deepen our country’s democratic values and Election Petitions jurisprudence. It will also sustain the faith of the people in our democratic process. The will of the people has prevailed.
“I congratulate my dearest brother, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola (Ileri-Oluwa). I also rejoice with the good people of Osun State and the entire APC family. This is a victory for all.
“While we relish the victory of the moment, I like to assure my dearest brother, Gboyega that we will be with him all the way to the Supreme Court. We shall hold hands together and march on this path of shared conviction. At the end, this victory shall be permanent.
“Evidently, this ruling has put paid to issues surrounding the election. We are confident that this mandate restored will provide a new lease of life for Osun State.
“We urge our party members to savour this victory with joy while also seeing it as a great booster ahead of the forthcoming elections.”
Signed:
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
January 27, 2023.
January 27, 2023
Press Statement
PDP Suspends Ebonyi State Chapter Chairman, Okorie Tochukwu Okoroafor
The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at its emergency meeting held on January 27, 2023 extensively reviewed the conduct and activities of the Ebonyi State Chairman of our Party, Okorie Tochukwu Okoroafor.
Pursuant to Sections 29 (2) (b) and 57(3) of the Constitution of the PDP (as amended in 2017) the NWC has on behalf of the National Executive Committee (NEC) approved the suspension of Okorie Tochukwu Okoroafor with effect from today, Friday, January 27, 2023, over allegations of anti-party activities and violation of provisions of Section 58 (1) of the PDP Constitution (as amended in 2017).
Consequently, Okorie Tochukwu Okoroafor has been referred to the Party’s appropriate Disciplinary Committee for further action.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
January 27, 2023
Press Statement
PDP Expands Ekiti State Caretaker Committee
The National Working Committee (NWC) of our great Party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has, on behalf of the National Executive Committee (NEC), pursuant to Sections 29(2)(b) and 31(2)(e) of our the Constitution of the PDP (as amended in 2017), approved the expansion of the Ekiti State Caretaker Committee of our great Party
The Members of the Expanded Ekiti State PDP Caretaker Committee are;
The NWC urges all leaders, critical stakeholders and teeming members of our Party in Ekiti State to continue to work together and remain focused on the task ahead.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
January 27, 2023
Press Statement
Osun: PDP Rejects Tribunal Judgment, insists On Adeleke’s Victory by Lawful Votes
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) rejects the judgement of the Osun State Governorship Election Tribunal which seeks to nullify the mandate freely given to our Party and Candidate, Governor Ademola Adeleke by the people of Osun State in the July 16, 2022 Governorship election.
The judgment of the Tribunal is contrary to the Will of the people of Osun State which was expressed by the overwhelming votes cast for our Party and Candidate at the election.
The July 16, 2022 Governorship election in Osun State was adjudged by Local and International Observers to be free, fair, transparent and clearly won by the PDP and our Candidate, Governor Ademola Adeleke in confirmation of the wishes and aspiration of the people.
The Will of the people of Osun State as expressed by electing Governor Adeleke must be respected. As a law-abiding Party, the PDP will explore all available legal means to restore the victory of our Party.
The PDP charges the people of Osun State to be calm, remain at alert and continue to support Governor Adeleke as we restate our confidence in the Institution of the Judiciary to dispense justice in this matter at the Appellate Court.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
January 27, 2023
Press Statement
PDP Releases Timetable for Fresh Governorship Primary in Abia State
Following the sad event of the death of our Abia State Governorship Candidate for the 2023 general elections, Prof. Uchenna Eleazar Ikonne, and pursuant to the provisions of Section 33 of the Electoral Act 2022, the National Working Committee (NWC) has released the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the conduct of a fresh Governorship Election Primary in Abia State.
The Timetable and Schedule of Activities are as follows;
(Gubernatorial Candidate Nomination)-Saturday, February 04, 2023
Fresh aspirants are permitted to participate in the current exercise alongside those who contested in the earlier primary.
All Party leaders, critical stakeholders, teeming member and supporters of the PDP in Abia State are guided by this accordingly.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
GOD HAS BEEN KIND TO ME; I SURVIVED MANY BATTLES – PRESIDENT BUHARI
President Muhammadu Buhari Friday in Daura returned all thanks to God for safety in life’s journey over many years, highlighting the years of battle during the Nigerian Civil War and some personal challenges as testimonies of divine protection and guidance.
President Buhari, who visited the Emir of Daura, Faruk Umar Faruk, after commissioning of two roads, said the destiny of man, country and the world remains in the hands of God.
The President concluded two-day commissioning of projects with the Musawa General Hospital, Government Day Secondary School, Musawa, Gora-Makauraci-Malamawa road, and Sandamu-Baure-Babban Mutum road, Gurjiya -Sandamu-Karkarku roads in Daura.
“This opportunity to serve the nation comes from God. All over the world, Nigeria is known for its diversity, with different religions and cultures.
“We are also known because we have a huge population of millions of people.
“For the President of Nigeria, at this time, to come from Daura is the grace and mercy of God,” he said.
President Buhari said that he secured his first job early after school to manage a co-operative in Daura, but had to escape and join the army when there was pressure that he should get married.
” I told Governor Aminu Bello Masari the story of how I left Daura to join the army. That was how God planned it. We make choices in life, but eventually destiny is before God.
“I was at the war front during the civil war, and saw how many died. Some fell right beside me. God kept me.
“Many bridges were blown just before we arrived at some places, and after we crossed. I arrived at some places to see bodies of my own colleagues that we were fighting together. I am alive today only by God’s grace,” the President added.
President Buhari noted that the Daura Emirate and community gained international recognition by divine purpose, not man’s efforts.
The President assured the Emirate that he would return and settle down in Daura, after handing over on May 29, 2023.
“The Emir has spoken extensively and I don’t have much to add. I have three of my classmates that are here today in the Emirate Council.
“I also hear of how the Emir has been giving recognitions and titles to my staff and family members. I am grateful for all the support,” he stated.
The Emir of Daura noted that the survival of the President when his car was bombed in 2014 was a divine act, which happened shortly before he won elections in 2015.
“The visit of the President is historic. He was invited by the Governor to inspect and commission development projects.
“The Governor has performed exceedingly well, beyond the projects that had been spotlighted. Close to seven years, he has been working for the people and he has made a big impact.
“Governor Masari is not a thief. The governor has done his best with available resources. He has showcased his record of service by inviting the President to witness progress in the state.
“The President has seen a lot in two days, but he has not seen all. We know the good works of the governor and really commend him,” Faruk said.
The Emir thanked the President for Federal Government projects in the state, and extoled the governor for creating an enabling environment for many to thrive.
“As a state, Katsina benefitted a lot from your position, Mr President and the Daura community remains grateful for all. For a long time, we will be talking about the blessings of God in our domain,” he added.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 27, 2023
We’ll complete all ongoing projects – Bassey Otu
The governorship standard-bearer of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Otu, has assured the people of the state that if elected as governor, his administration would continue with the good works of the incumbent Governor Ben Ayade.
Otu gave the assurance in Okpoma when the Cross River APC campaign team arrived at Yala Local Government Area (LGA) in conclusion of its tour of the northern senatorial district.
“I am always excited whenever I am in Yala because of your political consciousness. We will complete all the projects that are yet to be completed. This state was almost insolvent when governor Ayade took over but out of his ingenuity and deep vision he has laid a solid foundation for the State.
“When we take over, we will facilitate loans and grants to Yala sons who are involved in businesses, including ensuring that our sons who are local contractors are encouraged to rise and compete with companies like Julius Berger,” Otu promised.
The APC guber flag bearer added: “I took Yala salt somewhere and I was told that it is the most organic salt you can ever have. We will harness the full potential of this mineral resource by establishing a salt factory. People know me for keeping to my words. If I say I will do something, you can take it to the Bank”
Speaking, Ayade appealed to Otu to make the completion of Okpoma-Mfum road his first project in office.
The governor said: “All through my stay in office, I did not sell any government property, instead I have built so many. I want to publicly appeal to our incoming governor, Senator Bassey Otu, that when you get into office, please make sure you complete this Okpoma-Mfum road. Let this be your first project in office.
“During my first term, all my projects were in the south. In politics, charity begins from the other side before coming home.”
Addressing the mammoth crowd, the Director General (DG) of the Cross River APC Campaign Organization, Amb. Soni Abang, insisted that for the sake of fairness, equity and justice, Otu from the southern senatorial district is the right person to be the next governor of the state.
Despite being from Cross River Central where the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Sandy Onor emanates from, Abang noted that it was not the turn of the senatorial district.
He said: “I am from the central part of this state and I can say that it is not our turn to be governor. It is witchcraft to want to take what is not yours and we are not like that.”
Other speakers at the event praised Ayade for constructing the Okpoma-Mfum road, which he has pleaded with Otu to complete. They called on the voters to reject the PDP and vote for all the candidates of APC.
Notable South-South leaders on Wednesday scolded the Representative of Abia North Senatorial District, Chief Orji Uzor Kalu.
They also described his comment on the appointment of Chairman and Managing Director for the Niger Delta Commission (NDDC) as ‘’an attack on oil producing areas, classic example of conceit and proposal of anarchy’’.
‘’The NDDC Act is sound on the establishment of a governing body. To abandon it is unthinkable’’
In a statement read aloud to journalists in Abuja by the Chairman of the South-South Front (SSF), Chief John Harry, the leaders said it would be a disaster to the oil producing areas if President Muhammadu Buhari is diverted by Kalu and his co-travellers from the provisions of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Act 2000.
‘’The chairman must be an indigene of oil producing area and the office rotated amongst the member states of the Commission in the following alphabetical order. (a) Abia State; (b) Akwa-Ibom State; (c) Bayelsa State; (d) Cross-River State; (e) Delta State; (f) Edo State; (g) Imo State; (h) Ondo State; and (i) Rivers State. Also, the Managing Director, and two Executive Directors must also be indigenes of oil producing areas starting with the member states of the Commission with the highest production quantum of oil and rotated amongst member states in the order of production’’ the leaders stated.
At a conference to set the matter straight with the press, the leaders denounced Kalu as the greatest enemy of the oil producing areas and the most pronounced foe of President Buhari.
The zonal leaders praised Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, Ajayi Boroffice, Ayo Akinuelure and Nicholas Tofowomo for rejecting the Ondo State nominee, Charles Ogunmola .
‘’We consider the decision of the governor and the good people of Ondo State splendid. It is the only way to bring political cabals to their senses’’
Principally, the leaders urged President Muhammadu Buhari not to tread the disastrous path charted by Kalu but to explore paths to better and perhaps to cure fundamental problems in the oil rich region.
They urged Buhari to take steps to foil criticism by replacing Lauretta Onochie and Chief Samuel Ogbuku with Itsekiri indigenes.
Itsekiri Leaders of Thought and Omadino Unity Forum representatives, Chief Edward Ekpoko, Engineer Victor Wood and Mr. Edward Omagbemi are seeking an order quashing the nomination of Onochie and Ogbuku as NDDC Chairman and Managing Director.
They are also seeking a declaration that the nomination of Onochie, who hails from a non-oil producing area in Delta State as Chairman of NDDC and Chief Samuel Ogbuku, who hails from Bayelsa State as Managing Director of NDDC by President Buhari is unlawful for being contrary to the intent and purpose of NDDC Act.
‘’It is the turn of the Itsekiri Ethnic Nationality of Delta State to produce the Chairman and Managing Director of the Commission’’ the leaders said.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
IN THE FEDERAL HIGH COURT OF NIGERIA
IN ABUJA JUDICIAL DIVISION
HOLDEN AT ABUJA
Suit No: PHC/ABJ/2294/2022
BETWEEN:
(Both representing Itsekiri Leaders
Of Thought) PLAINTIFFS/APPLICANTS
(Representing Omadino Unity Forum)
(All acting for themselves and on behalf of the
Itsekiri Ethnic Nationality of Delta state
AND
& MINISTER OF JUSTICE
MOTION OF NOTICE
BROUGHT PURSUANT TO SECTION 6 & 35(1) OF THE 1999 CONSTITUTION OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA (AS AMENDED); ORDER 26 & 56 OF THE FEDERAL HIGH COURT (CIVIL PROCEDURE) RULES, 2019 AND UNDER THE INHERENT JURISDICTION OF THIS HONORABLE COURT
TAKE NOTICE that this Honourable Court shall be moved on …………., the ……….. day of …………….2022, at the hour of 9’ 0’ clock in the forenoon or so soon thereafter as counsel may be heard on behalf of the Applicants herein praying this Honourable Court for the following orders (s):
AN ORDER setting aside the purported screening and confirmation of the 5th and 6th Defendants on December 20, 2022, by the 3rd and 4th Defendants during the pendency of the order of this Honourable Court delivered on render nugatory the outcome of the applicants’ pending application for interlocutory injunction.
And for such further order and or other orders as this Honourable Court may deem fit to make in the circumstances.
GROUNDS UPON WHICH THE APPLICATION IS MADE:
DATED THIS 22ND DAY OF DECEMBER 2022.
_______________________
AMA ETUWEWE, SAN. (Signed)
SANCHEZ AGUMOR, ESQ.
IKAYE MABIAKU, ESQ.
AMA ETUWEWE (SAN) & CO.
APPELLANT / APPLICANT’S COUNSEL
T4025, BRAINS & HAMMER ESTATE,
GWARIMPA,
ABUJA.
TEL: 08033136059
E-mail: info@amaetulegal.org
FOR SERVICES ON:
THROUGH THE OFFICE OF THE HONOURABLE ATTORNEY OF THE FEDERATION.
FEDERAL MINISTRY OF JUSTICE, HEADQUARTERS,
ABUJA.
THROUGH THE CLERK,
SENATE OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
SENATE WING,
NATIONAL ASSEMBLY COMPLEX,
THREE – ARMS ZONE, ABUJA.
ABUJA.
YENAGOA, BAYELSA STATE.
IN THE FEDERAL HIGH COURT OF NIGERIA
IN ABUJA JUDICIAL DIVISION
HOLDEN AT ABUJA
Suit No: PHC/ABJ/2294/2022
BETWEEN:
(Both representing Itsekiri Leaders PLAINTIFFS/
Of Thought) APPLICANTS
(Representing Omadino Unity Forum)
(All acting for themselves and on behalf of the
Itsekiri Ethnic Nationality of Delta State, Nigeria
AND
& MINISTER OF JUSTICE
AFFADAVIT IN SUPPORT OF THE MOTION ON NOTICE
(a) An order of interim injunction restraining the 3rd and 4th Defendants from screening or taking any further steps to screen or confirm the nomination of the 6th and 5th defendants as the next and substantive chairman and managing director respectively of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), pending the expiration of the statutory (three) Months Pre-Action Notice already issued on the 3rd and 4th Defendants and or the hearing and determination of the motion on notice already filed.
AND/OR
(b) AN ORDER directing that the status QUO ANTE BELLUM be maintained by the 3rd and 4th Defendants, their servants, agents, privies, employees and committees concerning the screening and confirmation of the 5th and 6th Defendants as the next and substantive chairman and managing director respectively of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) pending the expiration of the statutory (three) Months Pre-Action Notice already issued by the applicants on the 3rd and 4th Defendants on November 30, 2022 and or the hearing and determination of the motion on notice already filed.
(c) An order granting leave to the plaintiffs to serve the 5th and 6th Defendants with the originating processes in this suit by substituted means by advertising the processes in at least one national newspaper circulating within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court and to deem same as proper service.
(d) Any order or further order as this Honorable Court may deem fit to grant in the circumstances.
seeking the following reliefs to wit:
(a) AN ORDER of interlocutory injunction restraining the 3rd and 4th from screening or confirming or taking any further step to screen or confirm the nomination of the 5th and 6th Defendants as the next and substantive Chairman and Managing Director respectively of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit.
AND/OR
(b) An order directing that the status QUO ANTE BELLUM be maintained by the 3rd and 4th Defendants, their servants, agents, privies, employees and committees concerning the screening and confirmation of the 5th and 6th Defendants as the next and substantive chairman and managing Director Representative of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit.
(c) Any order or further orders as This Honourable Court may deem fit to grant in the circumstances.
IN THE FEDERAL HIGH COURT OF NIGERIA
IN ABUJA JUDICIAL DIVISION
HOLDEN AT ABUJA
Suit no: PHC/ABJ/2294/2022
BETWEEN:
(Both representing Itsekiri Leaders
Of Thought)
(Representing Omadino Unity Forum)
(All acting for themselves and on behalf of the
Itsekiri Ethnic Nationality of Delta state
AND
& MINISTER OF JUSTICE
FORM 48
NOTICE OF CONSEQUENCES OF DISOBEDIENCE TO OEDER OF COURT
TO MRS LAURETTA ONOCHIE of F. C. T Abuja.
TAKE NOTICE that unless you obey the directions contained in this order, you will be guilty of contempt of Court and will be liable to be committed to prison.
DATED THIS ………….. DAY OF ……………. 2022
_______________
REGISTRAR
IN THE FEDERAL HIGH COURT OF NIGERIA
IN ABUJA JUDICIAL DIVISION
HOLDEN AT ABUJA
Suit no: PHC/ABJ/2294/2022
BETWEEN:
(Both representing Itsekiri Leaders
Of Thought)
(Representing Omadino Unity Forum)
(All acting for themselves and on behalf of the
Itsekiri Ethnic Nationality of Delta state
AND
& MINISTER OF JUSTICE
FORM 48
NOTICE OF CONSEQUENCES OF DISOBEDIENCE TO OEDER OF COURT
TO CHIEF SAMUEL OGBUKU of Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
TAKE NOTICE that unless you obey the directions contained in this order, you will be guilty of contempt of Court and will be liable to be committed to prison.
DATED THIS ………….. DAY OF ……………. 2022
_______________
REGISTRAR
IN THE FEDERAL HIGH COURT OF NIGERIA
IN ABUJA JUDICIAL DIVISION
HOLDEN AT ABUJA
Suit no: PHC/ABJ/2294/2022
BETWEEN:
(Both representing Itsekiri Leaders
Of Thought)
(Representing Omadino Unity Forum)
(All acting for themselves and on behalf of the
Itsekiri Ethnic Nationality of Delta state
AND
& MINISTER OF JUSTICE
FORM 48
NOTICE OF CONSEQUENCES OF DISOBEDIENCE TO OEDER OF COURT
TO MRS LAURETTA ONOCHIE of F. C. T Abuja.
TAKE NOTICE that unless you obey the directions contained in this order, you will be guilty of contempt of Court and will be liable to be committed to prison.
DATED THIS ………….. DAY OF ……………. 2022
A Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday advised President Muhammadu Buhari, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, the Senate of the National Assembly, Mrs. Lauretta Onochie and Chief Samuel Ogbuku on the consequences of flouting an earlier restraining order.
In a notice of consequences of disobedience to order of court dated 23rd day of December 2022, the court passed directions to President Buhari, Lawan, Onochie and Ogbuku.
‘’Take notice that unless you obey the directions contained in this order, you will be guilty of contempt of court and will be liable to be committed to prison’’.
Last week, the Court granted an order stopping the National Assembly from screening and confirming the nomination of Onochie and Ogbuku.
The presiding judge, Justice J. K. Omotosho, instructed that all actions on the matter be suspended pending the determination of the suit.
Chief Edward Ekpoko, and Engineer Victor Wood who are representing the Itsekiri Leaders of Thought and Mr. Edward Omagbemi who is representing Omadino Unity Forum all on behalf of the Itsekiri ethnic nationality of Delta State are seeking whether upon the proper construction of Section 12 (1) and other enabling sections of the Niger Delta Development Commission ( Establishment Etc) Act 2000 as amended and the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) it is not the turn of the Itsekiri Ethnic Nationality of Delta State, the highest oil producing region of the Delta State to produce the next chairman and managing director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
The plaintiffs are seeking a declaration that the nomination of Onochie, who hails from a non-oil producing area in Delta State as Chairman of NDDC by President Buhari is unlawful for being contrary to the intent and purpose of NDDC Act.
They are also seeking a declaration that the nomination of Chief Samuel Ogbuku, who hails from Bayelsa State as Managing Director of NDDC by President Buhari, when it is the turn of the Itsekiri Ethnic Nationality of Delta State to produce the Managing Director of the Commission, is unlawful for being contrary to the intent and purpose of the NDDC Act.
Particularly, they are seeking an order quashing the nomination of Onochie and Ogbuku as Chairman and Managing Director as well as restraining the President of the Senate and the Senate of the National Assembly from screening and confirming Onochie and Ogbuku as Chairman and Managing Director respectively.
The matter was adjourned to January 11, 2023, for further hearing.
Wike sacks Chief of Staff, Commissioners, others
Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike , has dissolved the State Executive Council with effect from Tuesday, May 24, 2022.
The Chief of Staff to the governor and Senior Special Assistant (Protocol), have also been relieved of their office.
“His Excellency, Governor Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, commends the members the Rivers State Executive Council for their service and contribution to the development of the State.
He has also wished them the best in all their future endeavours.”
Governor Wike, has therefore instructed all the former members of the State Executive Council to hand over to the most senior officers in their respective ministries.
Kelvin Ebiri
Special Assistant Media to the Rivers State Governor
May 24, 2022.
Niger Delta youths on Sunday lauded the leadership qualities of the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio, describing him as “a man of high integrity and principles”
The stance of the youths was articulated by the President, Coalition of Progressive Niger Delta Youths (CPNDY), Mr Chukwuma Nwabueze.
The youths who met in Warri applauded Akpabio for enhancing government effectiveness and transparency in the oil rich region, securing the sum of N10.4 billion from the 2021 Sovereign SUKUK Issuance for the completion of the dualisation of the East West highway project and mobilizing the RCC for necessary repairs on the collapsed portion of the road, as a stop gap measure, for easy vehicular and human movements.
‘The Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio has done his work well’’
In a statement in Warri, the youths advised the Coordinator of Wailing Women of the Niger Delta (WWND), Odighonin Adienbo and the National President of Niger Delta Elders’ Forum, Chief Tonye Ogbogbuya to tame their appetite for falsehood against Akpabio.
The youths described the recent comments of Ovie of Idjerhe, Monday Arthur Whiskey, Adienbo and Ogbogbuya on Buhari and Akpabio as distasteful and provocative.
The youths said Whiskey, Adienbo and Ogbogbula were mercenaries hired by some corrupt politicians and contractors to destabilize the region.
‘’The Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom, Adienbo and Ogbogbuya are officious people. They can’t be popular through baseless attacks on Buhari and Akpabio.
The statement commended Akpabio for cleaning up the mess in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and working in the best interests of the country.
The youths said even the blind can see the impressive achievements of the Federal Government in the oil rich region.
The statement underscored the worst personality traits of a king and the refusal of Whiskey, Adienbo and Ogbogbuya to observe the rules of objectivity.
Specifically, the youths praised Olu of Warri Kingdom, Ogiame Atuwatse III for his patriotism, leadership style and tactful politesse.
They urged Whiskey and his sponsors to emulate the Warri monarch on strategic communication, tactful presentation and wisdom.
The Olu of Warri Kingdom, Ogiame Atuwatse 111 recently drew Buhari’s attention to the under-utilisation of the four ports in Warri, Koko, Sapele, and Burutu, reconstitution of the NDDC board, immortalizing the first Minister of Finance of the country, Festus Okotie-Eboh, and resuscitation of the Ogidigben EPZ project.
The youths also underscored personal integrity, sincerity of Akpabio, culture of accountability and the massive steps that have been taken.
Nigeria will be glad to receive support from the Commonwealth in diverse areas of needs and challenges, President Muhammadu Buhari has said.
The President spoke during a bilateral meeting Thursday with Commonwealth Secretary-General, Baroness Patricia Scotland, at the sidelines of the Global Education Summit holding in London, United Kingdom.
Saying Nigeria was doing a lot to address food security through heavy investment in agriculture, and the security issues confronting the country in different regions, President Buhari welcomed the offer of assistance by the Commonwealth scribe.
Baroness Scotland said the Commonwealth had developed programmes on agribusiness, adding value to agriculture products for young people to get involved, climate change, criminal justice reforms, police reforms, and security, inviting Nigeria to benefit from technical assistance that can be provided.
She added that since President Buhari was the Champion for Anti-Corruption in Africa, the Commonwealth has developed anti-corruption benchmark tools, and would like to work with Nigeria in both public and private sectors.
Other areas the Commonwealth could assist, according to Baroness Scotland, include countering violent extremism, trade, and modalities to implement the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA).
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
July 29, 2021
PRESIDENT BUHARI SAD OVER DEATH OF 5 CORPS MEMBERS
President Muhammadu Buhari is deeply saddened by the death of five prospective corps members in a motor accident on Abaji/Kwali expressway, Abuja on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
The President joins the board, management and staff of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in paying tribute to those who lost their lives in the tragic accident.
Commiserating with the families of the youngsters, the President assures that Nigerians share their grief and would continue to uphold them in prayers through this difficult time.
The President extends best wishes to all corps members on national service as well as new call-ups in various orientation camps across the country.
President Buhari reaffirms that the welfare and security of these young Nigerians, who have obeyed the call to serve the nation with dedication and selflessness, will remain a key priority of government, even as the sacrifices of the fallen youths will never be forgotten.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
July 29, 2021
ENHANCING SOCIAL INTEGRATION AND REGIONAL CONNECTIVITY – SPOTLIGHT ON THE SECOND RIVER NIGER BRIDGE
One of the most profound sayings in the southeast region of Nigeria, is an adage that says, “The world is a marketplace”. When put in clearer context, this adage carries two meanings, the first, which seems to be the most obvious is that the Igbo ethnic nationality, fondly called Ndigbo, spread across the southeast and parts of the South-South, are majorly traders and business-minded people. The second, which carries a deeper connotation, is that the marketplace is the core of social, community and business interaction.
Prominent in this region is the city of Onitsha, a town located on the eastern bank of the Niger River. Onitsha is the economic hub of commerce and industry in the South-East geopolitical zone of Nigeria. It hosts the largest market in Africa in terms of geographical size and volume of goods and is strategically positioned as a regional hub for trade, business, and logistics in the region. Regardless of the several business ventures and investments that people from the South-East have scattered around the country, every end of year, during the festive season, almost everyone from the region comes back home to meet with their kinsmen, celebrate their achievements and engage in cultural activities.
Homecoming is everything. It offers the most valuable opportunity for integration. This integration alongside an impressive ingenuity for business and trade across the region has fostered an inspiring degree of social mobility that continues to drive economic growth and development in the region and across the country. In the middle of this all, stands, the Niger bridge, a symbol of hope, commerce, culture, and progress.
After over 50 years of connecting people both within and to the region, regular traffic, imposing heavy static loads on the bridge is taking a toll on the first Niger Bridge, giving rise to the urgent need for a second bridge crossing – The Second River Niger Bridge. For many stakeholders in the region, the completion of the Second River Niger Bridge will be a dream come true, as many have spent an important part of their lives looking forward to the impact and immense benefits that the bridge will bring to their personal lives, social engagements, and businesses.
A project of the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Works and Housing, in collaboration with the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority, the Second River Niger Bridge is expected to, among other things, minimize traffic congestion affecting the current bridge and ensure a safe and sufficient river crossing.
The Second River Niger Bridge is not just another regional amenity; it is a key national infrastructure that will play a major role in enhancing everyday life and social integration for dwellers while also driving trade and economic activities. As a significant bridge in the region and the nation, the Second River Niger Bridge will contribute immensely to the expansion of a well-developed road transportation network, providing ease for commuters and enhancing regional connectivity. It will make homecoming even sweeter.
Handling the construction of this bridge is Julius Berger, the company known for its quality and reliability, which has delivered some of Nigeria’s most important buildings and infrastructure and demanding engineering feats, such as the Lekki-Ikoyi Bridge in Lagos.
For the average resident in the South-East and environs, the drive for progress is an everyday activity. From making large supplies and sales on a regular basis, to expanding chain stores, or even successfully climbing the ladder of the apprenticeship system, to become a proud business owner. These amongst other stories of advancement, are the kind of progress, the Second River Niger Bridge will enable once completed. With the Second River Niger Bridge, inter-state travel within the region becomes more convenient. Social and economic integration also becomes more enhanced. It would also foster trade activities and other commercial engagements, like transporting raw materials and finished goods to factories, warehouses, suppliers, distributors, stores, and the end-consumers.
As shown on the project microsite where progress on the bridge is made transparent to the public, so far, reports around the ongoing construction, show good progress on the Second River Niger Bridge Project since commencement. For example, the superstructure is in progress, the geotechnical design and In-construction service are recording good and steady developments; the culverts have been completed, while work is in progress on both the Owerri Interchange and the Toll Station.
The project has started to deliver value for the community and this progress we can hope to continue till the full completion of the Second River Niger Bridge project.
– By Nnamdi Ogbo, Asaba
Lagos leaders praise Tinubu, Gbajabiamila, others
· Commence door to door advocacy of the Bamidele Yusuf Suleiman Change Agenda
Stakeholders in the politics of Lagos State on Friday described the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a man of character, competence and credibility.
They also commended Tinubu for his commitment to a greater Nigeria.
At a meeting to drum support for APC chairmanship candidate, Hon. Bamidele Yusuf Suleiman in Surulere, the political stakeholders commended the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Femi Gbajabiamila for sacrificing his comfort to work tirelessly for the party, empowering the people and deepening good governance, accountability and transparency in Nigeria.
Specifically, the Lagos stakeholders eulogized Gbajabiamila for bringing unparalleled brilliance to the speakership job.
Reading from a prepared text on behalf of Lagos Central Political Stakeholders, Hon Adeyinka Adedoyin praised the Lagos APC leadership for fielding Hon Bamidele Yusuf Suleiman as the party’s chairmanship candidate in Surulere Local Government.
“Bamidele Yusuf Suleiman is a reliable leader. He has the pedigree required to make a good chairman. He has all it takes to lead Surulere to success” the stakeholders said.
The stakeholders described Bamidele Yusuf Suleiman as a good leader, competent administrator and one of the most influential and uniting figures in Lagos Central.
“Bamidele Yusuf Suleiman is not just like other politicians. He is down to earth and clear sighted about issues facing Surulere Local Government’’
They vowed to make Bamidele Yusuf Suleiman chairman through the ballot box.
“Bamidele Yusuf Suleiman will give the elders a pride of place. He will provide good roads, attract more industries and give security attention” the stakeholders said.