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MORIBUND ISSELE-UKU GARMENT FACTORY: Hope Rising for Reactivation of Facility As DeltaBridge Consortium Moves In

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MORIBUND ISSELE-UKU GARMENT FACTORY: Hope Rising for Reactivation of Facility As DeltaBridge Consortium Moves In

The abandoned Delta State-owned multi – trade entrepreneurship centre, otherwise known as the Issele-Uku Garment Factory, in Aniocha North Local Government Area, will soon come back to life, courtesy of the state government’s concession plan.

According to our reporter who visited the centre recently, the Concessioneer, DeltaBridge Ltd, has commenced the clearing of the overgrown weeds in the premises and has engaged the services of some artisans to fix the distrepaired facilities in the Administrative Block, where serious cleaning work was going on at the time of the visit.

The General Manager of DeltaBridge, Nnamdi Samuel, who conducted newsmen round the moribund factory, said the Consortium was happy to take over the running of the centre, and was currently focusing on making the environment habitable to be able to have a clearer view of the level of damage done to the facility and ascertain to what extent the Administrative Block could be fixed, pending its official handing over.

Asked what the facility was like before they moved in, the GM said, “Basically the facility from the time we started bidding for it and when we saw it after the concession was done was a milestone of retrogression. It was a hugely dilapidated structure with everything that was in it almost gone.

“I can say clearly that there is no single electrical wiring in this place; no single electrical accessory, no air conditioner, no office chairs and tables. Most of the machines are gone. Most of the glasses, refrigerators and freezers are gone. In the garment section all the sewing and weaving machines are gone. The bakery, garri processing machines, generators, transformers and virtually every other thing at the centre have been completely vandalized.

“It’s almost like saying that we are building the place from scratch. The only thing left is block and roof. But the truth is that the vision is clear. Even if they give us an empty floor we will still come up with something because the goal is simple: Ensure that this facility comes back to life. And bringing it back to life is something that will help Delta State to create jobs, especially in the local environment, and boost internally generated revenue.

“There is a global market awaiting what we will be producing here. Once we start running, Akwa Ocha, royal beeds and accessories, luxury leather works and shoes, jackets and belts will be byproducts of this facility and they are export commodities. So we are looking at a bigger picture.

“It is painful that we have to go lower than where we ought to be to start off instead of standing on an already existing platform. This has only taken us aback from our projection, but the truth is that we are not deterred, we are not perplexed, it is not derailing us from the goal of ensuring that the facility is up and running, that lives are changed and that the MORE agenda of the Oborevwori administration is felt in ailing industries in the state”.

He explained that the revitalization of the centre would be done in phases, pointing out that the Consortium and its enterprise groups would only pull their strength and might to get the place running after taking over.

Mr Nnamdi revealed that Brijtopnet would be handling the garment section of the factory, Dyskon Smart Ltd, the ICT section; Sunset Bakery and Equipment, the bakery section; Awolor Bespoke, the shoe and leather works section, while PharmaChoice would be responsible for the juice and food processing section.

While saying that he would not apportion blame on anyone for the running aground of the centre, Mr Nnamdi emphasized that the success of the venture was supposed to have been a collective responsibility, assuring that the Consortium would do everything possible to avoid the pitfalls that led to the present state of the facility.

Ogwashi-Uku Poly celebrates landmark achievements under Prof. Achuenu Administration

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Ogwashi-Uku Poly celebrates landmark achievements under Prof. Achuenu Administration

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

Bldr Prof. Emmanuel Achuenu

The  indefatigable Rector of the Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-uku,Prof. Emmanuel Achuenu, has reeled out his several monumental achievements that have boosted the morale of staff, repositioned the institution and given it a pride of place in the community of tertiary institutions in the country, since he assumed office barely four years ago.

Prof. Achuenu, who was appointed in July 2021, while interacting with Newsbreeze,said it has been a period of progress, sustained vision and pragmatic leadership that have culminated in infrastructural development, digitalization of the school’s operations, making learning and access to information and other facilities uncumbersome.

Prof. Achuenu said that since his appointment as the substantive Rector of the institution,he has been busy working on agenda with new innovations, resuscitating moribund projects and bringing new ones on board.

Prof. Achuenu declared his commitment to make a difference and reaffirmed his preparedness to work relentlessly to change the narrative of the higher institution in the positive direction. He said, he had come to serve, strengthen academic excellence, rebuild trust, build infrastructure and restore the dignity and pride of the Ogwashi- Uku Poly.

He disclosed that the early days of his administration were challenging but well inspiring. Prof. Achuenu said his success, resilience and creative instincts added to the immense potential in the institution, have kept his going and enabled him to record early success.

Prof. Achuenu said he has paid attention to human resource development and staff welfare, which he noted had added impetus to smooth administration of the Polytechnic, adding that he has demonstrated deep commitment to create a motivated, productive and inclusive workforce in the Polytechnic, stressing that he has also prioritized academic reinvention and programme development.

His administration, according to him, has initiated far-reaching reforms aimed at redefining the institution’s academic trajectory, disclosing that he has come up with several novel academic programmes to expand the academic horizons of the Polytechnic.

“My administration has taken bold reforms that have succeeded in fostering discipline, anti-cultism and security, academic integrity, cordial relationship with stakeholders, financial transformation, infrastructure development, among others.

Achuenu’s leadership has break away from the conventional norms and stereotypes that have often defined leadership roles in this clime. The Building guru, Prof. Achuenu has had a distinguished academic journey that makes him eminently qualified for his role. With a Ph.D. in Construction Management (2000) plus other executive and management programmes attended in the course of his career, Achuenu’s academic qualifications, research achievements and leadership experiences have prepared him for this job at Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku.

It is to the proactiveness of Bldr Prof Achuenu and his management team, that all the programmes run by the institution have been fully accredited by the National Board for Technical Education ( NBTE), it’s regulatory body . In addition also , DSPG also secured approval to establish the School of Environmental Sciences , from NBTE, to run courses in ND Building Technology , ND Architecture , while further securing full accreditation in ND Urban and Regional Planning as well as ND Estate Management. Also securing NBTE,s nod are HND Agricultural and Bio Environmental Engineering Technology ( Farm ,Power and Machinery option), HND Civil Engineering Technology , ND Cooperative Economics and Management , ND Social Development and ND Crime Management , respectively.

Delta State Polytechnic,Ogwashi-Uku provides an enriching learning environment that fosters innovation, critical thinking, and collaborative opportunities, empowering students to thrive academically and personally. The Distance & Online Learning, Part-Time and Entrepreneurship development centre products of the Polytechnic can competes favourable with any product in the general public across the globe, and the students are encouraged to acquire different skills. The institute of ICT centre is among the best in Nigeria Polytechnics today. Some of uncompleted infrastructure and buildings met by the Rector are currently undergoing renovation with provision of infrastructures.

Prof. Emmanuel Achuenu’s leadership will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of Nigerian leaders, scholars, and professionals. His unwavering commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and community service continues to set the standard for higher education in Nigeria and across Africa. It is therefore obvious that his first tenure in the office as rector will represents a significant milestone in the transformation of Nigeria’s tertiary education.

Asagba’s War Against Drug, Substance Abuse Yielding Results

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Asagba’s War Against Drug, Substance Abuse Yielding Results
HRM {Obi}Professor Epiphany Azinge,SAN,OON 14th Asagba of Asaba Kingdom

Over 35 dealers and several illicit drug users have been arrested by the Asaba Drug Awareness and Rehabilitation Committee in collaboration with law enforcement agents in the state capital at some red spots within Asaba and its environs in the past two weeks.

The Chief Nwanze Oduah-led Committee has handed over the suspects to the state commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mr. Halilu Hamidu, at Ogwashi-Uku, Delta State.

The Asaba Drug Awareness and Rehabilitation Committee was recently inaugurated by Asagba Azinge to flush out drug dealers from his kingdom, rehabilitate drug victims and reintegrate them into society.

The director-general, Delta State Orientation and Communications Bureau, Dr. Latimore Oghenesivbe, who commending the Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Epiphany Azinge, for his unwavering commitment to the ongoing war against substance abuse and arrest of drug dealers in his domain, and by extension Delta State, appreciated the series of arrests made.

Oghenesivbe described Asagba Azinge as a no-nonsense royal father, a disciplinarian and a legal icon with zero tolerance for lawlessness, substance abuse, drug dealing and all forms of immorality, noting that the committee has demonstrated significant commitment towards the war against substance abuse, as can be seen from recent arrests and sensitisation campaigns. He urged the committee not to rest on its oars, assuring that the state governor, Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, will continue to do the needful in collaboration with stakeholders to ensure that the Drug Free Delta campaign and rehabilitation of drug victims are pursued vigorously until drug dealers and illicit drugs street hawkers are chased out of the state.

The Bureau Chief passionately appealed to other traditional rulers in the state, as well as community leaders and local government chairmen, to emulate Asagba Azinge’s efforts by collaborating with the NDLEA, security agencies, and the state government in the ongoing war against substance abuse, including the arrest and prosecution of drug dealers and street hawkers.

“The State Orientation and Communications Bureau, strongly recommend that other royal fathers, community leaders and local government Chairmen should kindly collaborate with the NDLEA, security agencies and the state government to combat substance abuse, arrest and prosecution of drug dealers and sellers in their kingdoms, Communities and LGAs,” Oghenesivbe added

DRUG ABUSE: Asagba Prof Azinge Threatens to Sanction Any Sufficiently Implicated Asaba Title Holder

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DRUG ABUSE: Asagba Prof Azinge Threatens to Sanction Any Sufficiently Implicated Asaba Title Holder

Any Asaba title holder sufficiently considered to be involved in drug abuse, with evidence to show, will be stripped of the title.

The Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Prof Epiphany Azinge, SAN, OON, made the pronouncement while playing host to the State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Halilu Hamidu, who paid him a courtesy visit.

Asagba Prof Azinge said Asaba people, on their own accord and initiative, recently rose to see how they could cleanse the community of drug peddlers, barons and addicts.

According to the monarch, “It was a well orchestrated and well planned undertaking which yielded a lot of positive results. I can say without equivocation now that as far as drug abuse is concerned, the whole town is very very quiet. And that’s flowing from the efforts of the community on their own.

“We just didn’t stop there, we followed it up. I had to make a pronouncement from the throne that any Asaba titled man that is sufficiently considered to be, and that will be evidence-based, involved in drug trafficking will be stripped off his title and, if need be, made to go through the process all over again.

“We have never said such before; we have never done it. It shows how concerned we are, and how determined and resolute we are to frontally combat the menace”.

He described as unfortunate the absence of the Agency’s office in Asaba, pointing out that he had earlier taken the issue up with the immediate past State Commander, who was also courageous enough to tell the Governor, at a meeting in Government House, that he, the Asagba, had raised the issue with him.

While insisting that NDLEA having its office in Asaba was not negotiable, the highly revered traditional ruler told his guest that the Chairman of Oshimili South Local Government Council, Dr. Obi Kelvin Ezenyili, had publicly announced that he would provide an office space for the Agency at the Council’s Secretariat, expressing the hope that the promise would be fulfilled in the shortest possible time so that the Agency could be in a better position to proactively deliver on its mandate.

“State Commander, there is no smoke without fire and there is no rumour without an iota of truth. Our people have said it repeatedly, and I am tempted to imagine that there is some elements of truth in it. And even some of the people arrested seem to have alluded to the fact as well, that security agencies seem to compromise, and to an extent we can even say that they are a little bit complicit in what is going on around us.

“Today, you are starting on a clean slate and I want you to take that seriously into consideration. But we as a people are not prepared to gloss over anything of that nature. We are talking about something affecting the life of members of this community, and our interest in the life of our people is uppermost in our minds. So I want you to take that to heart as you start your journey as State Commander of Delta State”, Asagba Prof Azinge said.

Earlier in his remarks, the NDLEA State Commander, Halilu Hamidu, a Commander of Narcotics (CN), said the visit was to familiarize with the Asagba, whom he described as a renowned Professor of Law, and to acquaint the monarch with the challenges facing the Agency.

CN Hamidu said the location of the Agency’s headquarters in Ogwashi-Uku, instead of the state capital, Asaba, was a major challenge militating against quick response to the fight against drug abuse, even with a workforce of over 270 officers and their readiness to work towards achieving a drug-free Delta.

He identified the proximity of Asaba to Onitsha as a factor responsible for the availability of large quantities of prohibited tablets in the town, disclosing that he had visited some black spots within the state capital territory to assess the drug situation and map out strategies on how to deal with the situation.

The Commander, while commending the Asagba for the much he had done to remedy the situation in Asaba since ascending the throne, urged him to intervene in finding solutions to the logistics problems of the Agency, even as he solicited the involvement of all in the fight against drugs.

Delta Police foil planned attack on Students of Ogwashi-Uku Poly writing their final year exams, two suspects nabbed with guns

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Delta Police foil planned attack on Students of Ogwashi-Uku Poly writing their final year exams, two suspects nabbed with guns

What could have resulted to bloodbath at the Delta State Polytechnic,  Ogwashi-Uku last Thursday, while students were writing their final year examinations was averted.

The attack was successfully foiled following intelligence which unmasked the planned attack by a cult group allegedly responsible for a series of kidnappings at Ibusa Ogwash-Uku, Obulu-Okiti, Isele-Uku and Isele-Asagba axis.

This was disclosed at a press briefing in Asaba on Tuesday by the Delta State Commissioner of Police CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, detailing the activities of the command during the month of July, 2025.

His words: “On 31/07/2025 (last Thursday) at about 0830hrs, the DPO Ogwashi-Uku division received information of an imminent attack on students writing their final year exams at Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Ukwu by suspected cultists.

“Operatives were deployed and two suspects (names withheld by The Townhall) each aged 23 years, were arrested with two handbags containing six cut-to-size guns and eight rounds of live cartridges.

“Upon interrogation,  suspects confessed to being members of the Black Axe Confraternity. Investigation is ongoing and revealed that they are allegedly responsible for a series of kidnappings at Ibusa Ogwash-Uku, Obulu-Okiti, Isele-Uku, Isele-Asagba and most recently the kidnap of a young lady at Ogwash-Uku on the 9th July 2025.

“The suspect led the operatives to their hideout at Second Deputy, where four other members of his gang were also arrested”, the CP stated.

The Police boss also gave a breakdown of number of Firearms recovered during the month under review to 18;  number of ammunition and cartridges recovered – 359; while a total of N8,500,000 was recovered as ransoms.

Laptops and mobile phones recovered in the same month of July were – 378; total number of suspects arrested – 211, according to the statistics released.

He seized the occasion to advise Deltans “to report any suspicious persons or movement within their environment, either by reporting at the nearest Police station or by calling any of the following control room numbers  – 08036684974  – 08114895600- 08025666914

DSCTDA Cracks Down on Poor Sanitary Condition of Ambience Mall, Ogbeogonogo Market, Others in Asaba

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DSCTDA Cracks Down on Poor Sanitary Condition of Ambience Mall, Ogbeogonogo Market, Others in Asaba

As part of ongoing efforts to ensure a cleaner and more hygienic capital city, the Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency (DSCTDA) has issued a stern warning to Ambience Mall in Asaba, following the discovery of poor sanitation conditions during a recent inspection.

Officials from the agency observed that the commercial plaza lacked basic waste management infrastructure, including waste bins and proper refuse disposal channels. The rear alley of the complex was found littered with debris, disused materials, and unsanitary waste—raising serious concerns about public health and environmental safety.

Addressing the situation, Mr. Isaac Nwosu, Head of Environment at DSCTDA, stated, “It is unacceptable that a commercial complex of this magnitude does not have provisions for proper waste disposal. This violates the state’s sanitation regulations, and drastic action will be taken if the situation is not immediately rectified.”

The agency, which has been actively monitoring both commercial and residential zones across the capital, stressed that no business premises will be exempted from its sanitation enforcement drive. Plaza owners and tenants have been urged to maintain clean environments and provide adequate waste receptacles for refuse disposal.

In line with its zero-tolerance policy on environmental negligence, the DSCTDA has issued an ultimatum to Ambience Mall management to comply with sanitation standards or face penalties—including fines, temporary closure, or legal action.

As the state intensifies efforts to uphold urban hygiene and environmental responsibility, Mr. Nwosu reiterated the agency’s call for collective civic responsibility. “Cleanliness is not negotiable. Every property owner and business operator must play their part,” he said.

In a related development, the DSCTDA Environmental Team, also led by Mr. Nwosu, carried out a major cleanup exercise at Ogbegonogo Market and Ibusa Junction area of Asaba. The operation included enforcement of Premises Sanitation by shop owners along Ogbeogonogo market corridor, from Ibusa junction to Oshimili South Arcade and the removal of goods placed on setbacks by traders, aimed at restoring order and improving pedestrian access within the market.

Simultaneously, a sensitization campaign was conducted by Ngozi Peter head of Cooperate Affairs department of the DSCTDA and her team, engaging market women and men on the importance of cleanliness, responsible waste disposal, and environmental responsibility.

Mr. Nwosu, who is supervising the ongoing cleanup, confirmed that the exercise will continue as part of DSCTDA’s broader strategy to enforce compliance in public and commercial spaces.

With further inspections scheduled in other commercial areas, the agency assures residents of its unwavering commitment to building a cleaner, safer, and healthier Delta Capital Territory.

The Fractured Debate on Anioma State Creation

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The Fractured Debate on Anioma State Creation

By: Emeka Esogbue

President Bola Tinubu

The ongoing discussion about creating Anioma State has become a source of division among the Anioma people, sparking heated debates and controversies the likes of which has remained unseen in the recorded history of the people. The politicization of this issue has widened the rift, with differing views and interests fueling daily rejoinders, communiques, claims, and disclaimers. The division has characterized Anioma as one of the leading regions with rejoinders, all geared towards the proposed Anioma State also with different names and groups.

The region’s online platforms have become battlegrounds, with politicians and their media aides engaging in verbal sparring matches with other interested commentators. The question of whether the proposed state should be located in the Southeast or South-South region has been a major point of contention.

Consequently, this author, a watcher of the development since it unfolded has observed the emergence of three main groups with differing perspectives on the policy each stuck to its gun:

1. *Pro-Southeast Group*: Politicians and their supporters believe that locating the state in the Southeast would increase its chances of being created, given the region’s perceived marginalization.

2. *Pro-South-South Group*: Some Anioma people argue that their historical and geographical ties to the South-South region should be preserved, citing the struggles of their ancestors who fought for the creation of the Midwest Region.

3. *Skeptics*: A third group doubts the feasibility of state creation in a civilian era and believes that Anioma people are better off within the current Delta State fold.

As the debate intensifies, the unity of Anioma subgroups (Enuani, Ika, and Ukwuani) appears to be fraying. The recent statement from the chairpersons of the 9 Local Government Areas distancing themselves from the proposed state has sparked further controversy.

The situation is becoming increasingly polarized, with some accusing others of ulterior motives. The debate has become so heated that discussing it on social media requires caution, as views may be met with hostile reactions especially as insults fly in the air like warlike drones and missiles seeking likely targets to strike and claim victory. The perception bellicose reactions have kept many away from giving their views on the subject.

As political observers watch the Anioma scenes, only time will reveal the political fate of the people. However, it is hoped that it will make and not mar them.

DSCHC Trains Healthcare Facility Providers in Delta South on New Policy Alert Read more at Time Africa Magazine https://timeafricamagazine.com/dschc-trains-healthcare-facility-providers-in-delta-south-on-new-policy-alert/

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DSCHC Trains Healthcare Facility Providers in Delta South on New Policy Alert Read more at Time Africa Magazine https://timeafricamagazine.com/dschc-trains-healthcare-facility-providers-in-delta-south-on-new-policy-alert/

In its ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery across Delta State, the Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC) has organized a training session for healthcare facility providers in the Delta South Senatorial District.

The training aimed to sensitize facility operators and healthcare personnel on the newly introduced policy alert, which is designed to enhance service delivery, improve the enrollee experience, and ensure compliance with best practices under the state’s health insurance scheme.

Speaking during the training, the Director-General of DSCHC, Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, explained that the initiative is part of a wider reform agenda focused on building capacity, promoting transparency, and enhancing accountability in healthcare service delivery.

Dr. Akpoveta emphasized that the Commission observed knowledge gaps among some facilities regarding the core concepts and principles of health insurance. He said the training was necessary to ensure these principles are well understood and properly implemented at all levels. He provided detailed insights into the operational implications of the new policy and how it aligns with the Commission’s commitment to ensuring quality, accessible, and affordable healthcare for all Deltans.

The Director-General noted that similar trainings have already taken place in Delta North and Central senatorial zones. With Delta South now covered, he expressed satisfaction that healthcare facilities are actively engaging with the policy, and reaffirmed the Commission’s resolve to sustain such capacity-building initiatives.

“Primary healthcare is the bedrock of universal health coverage. Without its widespread availability across the nooks and crannies of Delta State, we cannot achieve that goal,” he stated.

Dr. Akpoveta also encouraged participants to use the opportunity to interact with DSCHC representatives, ask questions, and clarify any concerns regarding the policy’s implementation and expectations.

The Commission reiterated its commitment to working closely with stakeholders to ensure the policy is effectively rolled out and translates into tangible benefits for both enrollees and providers.

The event attracted participants from various public health institutions, who lauded the initiative. They commended the DSCHC for the training and pledged to embrace and implement the principles of health insurance, noting its value to both primary healthcare centers and their enrollees.

 

Body of Missing Real Estate Mogul Found in Forest

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Body of Missing Real Estate Mogul Found in Forest

Police has confirmed the recovery of the lifeless body of a missing real estate mogul, Mr. Ekpeboh Richard, days after he was declared missing.

Operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) discovered his decomposing body around 6 p.m. on Saturday in a swampy forest between the NDDC IDP Camp Road and Otuokpoti, in Ogbia Local Government Area.

Preliminary reports indicate that Richard was shot in the head at close range, execution-style, and his body dumped in the forest.

A native of Amassoma in Southern Ijaw LGA and a father of two, Richard was the Vice Chairman of the Real Estate Consultants Association of Bayelsa State.

He was last seen on July 24, 2025, after leaving home. His wife raised an alarm around 2 a.m. the following day when he failed to return.

According to family sources, suspicious WhatsApp messages were later sent from his phone, claiming he was fine and asking his wife not to worry. One message promised to transfer money through a PoS operator instead of his usual direct transfers, and ₦15,300 was reportedly sent. The messages also referenced outstanding debts of ₦9 million and ₦3 million allegedly owed to colleagues in the real estate sector.

However, further investigation revealed that the messages were sent by his abductors in a calculated attempt to mislead the family and delay rescue efforts.

Friends and associates, alarmed by the irregular messages and concerned for his safety, reported the matter to the police. Officers from the RRS, led by CSP Bishop Elemide, launched an operation using community intelligence, local youth support, and an eyewitness account.

According to sources, two young men in a blue Honda V-Boot were seen dragging Richard into the forest. Moments later, two gunshots rang out. The suspects fled, escaping in Richard’s Toyota Matrix, which was also stolen.

At the crime scene, police discovered signs of a struggle. A piece of footwear believed to belong to the deceased was found nearby. His body, partially concealed in the swamp, showed evidence of severe gunshot trauma to the head.

Sources at the Bayelsa State Police Command confirmed that the Homicide Unit of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) is now leading the investigation. Two key angles are being explored: a business dispute or possible links to cybercrime or money laundering.

“We are leaving no stone unturned,” a senior police officer stated. “The perpetrators will be apprehended and brought to justice.”

Though currently on official assignment in Abuja, Commissioner of Police Francis Idu has been fully briefed and has directed the SCID to intensify efforts in tracking down the killers and uncovering the motive behind the brutal murder.

Credit: Vanguard

DG Delta Health Insurance Scheme Warns Service Providers Against Sharp Practices

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DG Delta Health Insurance Scheme Warns Service Providers Against Sharp Practices

The Director-General, Delta State Contributory Health Insurance Scheme (DSCHS), Olorogun Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, has cauctioned health care providers against cutting corners in carrying out their responsibilities in the treatment of patients in the scheme.

The DG, who gave this advise in Asaba at a stakeholders engagement with civil servants focusing on sensitization around recent policy updates about the scheme, said any health care provider who gives bills for unrendered services is liable to fine or prosecution.

He decried the attitude of health care providers who denies patients complete dosage of drugs even when such have been provided by the government who pays the salaries of the service providers noting that it was serious offense to engage in such act.

“Government employed you pays your salaries, provide drugs while not give the patients the required drugs?” Akpoveta who was a one time chairman governing council of the university of Calabar, said he derived joy in saving the ‘common man’ in the society noted that no one can blackmail him because he was a successful medical doctor before venturing into politics hence things must be done right.

He therefore, appealed to the health care providers to play by the rules in handling patients just as he advised the patients to behave responsibly.

He said bills should aligned with the identities of patients in the record accompanied with identify photograph of the patients noting that the measure is to ensure efficiency and satisfaction of all stakeholders in the scheme.

According to him; “The state health insurance scheme comprised of preventive and curative services which is aimed at primary and secondary care, taking into cognizance the prevailing local disease burden and morbidity in Delta. And the tertiary care services which is based on approved referral by by the scheme.”

He stressed that health care insurance scheme is designed to take care of 80 percent of ailments or diseases suffer by the citizens noting that no where in the world were health insurance scheme cover 100 percent of ailments.

Dr. Akpoveta revealed that point 5 percent of the state budget is set aside for free maternal health care for pregnant women and children under five years in the state noting that the scheme coverred routine antenatal clinic, routine drugs to cover duration of pregnancy, routine urine and blood tests, routine ultrasound scan and referral services for complicated cases of pregnancy.

On secondary care, the DG highlighted the treatment package to includes; pediatrics, internal medicine, psychiatric care, gynaecological intervention, surgeries, ophthalmology, physiology, laboratory investigations, radiology and other services as maybe listed by the commission.

Akpoveta pointed out that were a particular treatment is not covered by insurance all the ancillaries will be handle by the scheme.

He, however, commended governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his total support and commitment in ensuring that the scheme continue to meet up to the mandates it was set up to actualised.

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