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Controversy As Parent Of Slain 2-Year-Old Boy Demands N2bn Compensation From NDLEA

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Controversy As Parent Of Slain 2-Year-Old Boy Demands N2bn Compensation From NDLEA

Parents of a two-year-old boy, Ivan Omhonria, who was killed and his younger brother, Eromonsele, who was shot in the eye by officers of the Nigerian Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Delta State in 2023, on Wednesday, demanded N2 billion compensation from the Agency.

The father of the children, Mr Fidelis Ivan Omhonria, his Wife and the surviving son who appeared before the House Committee on Public Petitions alleged that the family was abandoned by the Agency since the incident occurred over a year ago. He said the health of the surviving son has been deteriorating without adequate treatment.

The family had petitioned the NDLEA to the House and the first hearing of the matter came up on Wednesday.

The parents also denied that they had an agreement with the NDLEA for a N25 million compensation.

Speaking during the investigative hearing, the lawyer of the NDLEA, Barrister Muniat Adeleye, told the Committee that they had agreed on the sum of N2 billion but N5 million had been sent to the family as the initial payment.

She said the N2 billion compensation is to be paid in five tranches over the next five months.

She expressed surprise over the petition saying the Agency did not expect it as the matter had been resolved.

She said the agreement was entered with both parents on board.

However when asked for the agreement by the Committee, Adeleye, who is the Assistant Director of Prosecution and Legal Services, said the agreement has not been signed.

This was unacceptable by the Committee, who demanded that the NDLEA Chairman, Brigadier General Buba Marwa must appear before the Committee at its next hearing on the matter.

The father of the boys denied such agreement, saying the NDLEA Chairman, General Marwa had sometimes after the incident sent him N5 million on a personal note.

He said the Agency did not take responsibility to recompense the family and that the surviving sibling is under serious threat.

He said they sought redress from the House to serve justice on the matter.

He said: “I was shocked to hear how to mention an agreement just now. I’m not a party to any agreement.

“Yes, actually within the period that this either took place, the NDLEA Chairman called me and he told me he’s very sorry for this incident that happened on the 13th of July 2023 and that he’s not in the country. But on his own personal commitment to me that he’s sending the token to me.

“He didn’t mention any amount to me. He said he would send me some money to be taking care of my son. Two weeks later, we left the Eye Foundation in Lagos. Then I received five million in my wife’s account that I sent to him. That’s all. And so where did the agreement for 25 million came in?”

The lawyer said: “We wrote them, demanded the sum of two billion as compensation. They never bothered to even respond to that demand. They ignored it with so much arrogance. Before this house, we want adequate compensation. A life was lost, cut short. Another destiny is someone’s being damaged because of the eye.

“He was just one year old when this incident happened. From then until now, they’ve been dealing with that. They are not prepared to do anything to even remedy the physical damage done to this infant boy. It’s like they are playing games and gimmicks to dodge responsibility. We want this house to compel the NDLEA to be responsive and responsible enough as a corporate agency to do what is obtainable on the best international standard practice.”

In his ruling, Chairman, House Committee on Public Petitions, Hon. Mike Etaba, said: “I hope you appreciate the gravity of what we are saying. And so long as the house is concerned, Nigerians are interested about this matter. The whole world is watching us.

“The next day this matter is going to be adjourned, the principal officer, which is your head, has to be in this committee. This matter is too serious for anybody to represent him. We also understand that you are a lawyer, and you have a right to represent your organisation. But the point we find ourselves, and the kind of life-threatening events that we find ourselves, we want the NDLEA head and boss to appear in person and explain to Nigerians.

“Since this incident took place, the steps he has taken to make sure that this family recovers from the trauma. And as we speak, you can see the child with one eye.

“Look at that child with one eye, and you are a mother. All of us are fathers. Nobody would be alive to see his or her child with this kind of condition.

“The monies that have been sent to him was just a help, a token to make sure that he carries on with the little medication he needed to do. So let us not sit here and tell us and tell Nigerians that there was an agreement for NDLEA to pay this family 25 million. Nobody should hear it. It shouldn’t be heard anywhere.”

Hence, the Committee adjourned the investigative hearing to 22nd October, 2024.

Delta NUJ Expresses Concern About Growing Issue Of Street Urchins, Calls For Solution

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Delta NUJ Expresses Concern About Growing Issue Of Street Urchins, Calls For Solution

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, has expressed concern about the increasing number of children and adolescents living on the streets.

The Union, in a statement issued by its Chairman, Comrade Churchill Oyowe and Secretary, Comrade Victor Sorokwu, noted that many of these young individuals had resorted to begging and performing menial tasks, such as cleaning car windshields, as a means of survival and were beginning to view such activities as legitimate trades.

It stated that investigations revealed that many of the children and adolescents concerned were not Deltans and lacked stable homes, with places like Koka interchange, Interbau roundabout and Maryam Babangida Way junction in Asaba; the PTI Junction and Effurun drive-over, have become their makeshift residences.

Delta NUJ noted that these children often lacked education and proper parental guidance, leading them to become street children, pointing out that the situation had tended to make them more susceptible to violence and a lack of compassion, viewing society as a harsh environment where survival was paramount.

The Union reflected on the plight of the Almajiris in the northern part of Nigeria, whose neglect over the past few decades had contributed to the rise of violent groups such as Boko Haram, as well as kidnappers and other criminal elements in the region, with the attendant severe consequences.

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, warned that Delta State might face a similar situation if the issue of these ‘street urchins’ was not promptly addressed.

It urged the State Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, and Social Development and other relevant authirities charged with the responsibility of addressing the issue to take immediate and effective action to curb the spread of street children in the state, to avoid the breeding of future criminals and ensure a safer society for all.

Meanwhile, the Union has expressed heartfelt condolences to the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command and the entire Command in the wake of the tragic loss of officers in the ambush by suspected kidnappers on Sunday, October 13, 2024.

It stated that Journalists in the state were deeply saddened by the loss of the newly deployed DPO to the Agbarho Division and other officers, as well as the injuries sustained by the DPO of Orerokpe, currently receiving medical attention.

The NUJ recalled that the unfortunate incident occurred while the police team was courageously on a rescue mission, highlighting the immense risks and sacrifices involved in their relentless efforts to rid the state of criminal elements and ensure the safety and security of residents

It commended the unwavering dedication to this thankless task and urged the Police Command not to be deterred by the tragic event.

“Our thoughts and prayers are also with the families of the fallen officers. We understand the profound loss they are experiencing, and we appeal for prompt support and succour to be provided to them during this difficult time.

“Please know that the NUJ stands in solidarity with the Delta State Police Command, and we remain committed to supporting your efforts to create a safer environment for all residents of Delta State”, the statement concluded

IBUSA DUMPSITE OVERSTRETCHED, BUT EFFECTIVELY SERVING ITS PURPOSE – Mofe Edema

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IBUSA DUMPSITE OVERSTRETCHED, BUT EFFECTIVELY SERVING ITS PURPOSE – Mofe Edema

The authorities of the Delta State Waste Management Board have confirmed that the government approved dumpsite at Ibusa, in Oshimili North local government area, is overstretched. The Executive Chairman of the Board, Hon Matthew Mofe Edema, who disclosed this in Asaba while dispatching a team to push back the heavily compact dumpsite,, however, noted that the facility was still effectively serving its purpose.,

Hon Edema said the Ibusa dumpsite was the only one servicing the entire State Capital Territory, with over 40 waste disposal contractors, otherwise known as Private Sector Participants (PSPs) using it on a daily basis.

He said the Board had been consistent with the maintenance of the Ibusa  dumpsite and others across the state by regularly pushing back heaps of refuse to create space for more truck loads of waste..

The Board Chairman revealed that there were plans to expand the dumpsite, but that in the interim, the users should take advantage of the regular maintenance of the site to provide quality service to their clients

Insecurity: Azagba Interfaces With Herders, Ogume Community

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Insecurity: Azagba Interfaces With Herders, Ogume Community
Special Adviser to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State on Livestock and Inter-Ethnic Relations, Chief Jeffrey Azagba, has condemned the continuous destruction of crops and properties by the herders in Ogbe-Ole and Ogbe-Ogume communities in Ndokwa West LGA.
Chief Azagba who spoke at a stakeholder meeting put together by his office to find a last peace between Ogume community and cattle herders, said governor Oborevwori is a peace-loving governor hence,  “Anybody or groups that want to disturb the state will face the full wrath of the law”
He reminded the herders that the ban on open grazing in the state is still in force, noting that the state government was desirous of promoting healthy and harmonious living among farmers and herders in the state.
He condemned in strong term the incessant harassment and destruction of crops and properties in some parts of the state by some herders warning them to desist forthwith.
“Farming is a source of livelihood just as the cattle rearing. You have subjected our people to abject poverty because the source of their livelihood is what you feed your cattle with, the story here in Ogbe-Ogume is that the youths are sleeping in the bush to secure the farms, which is not supposed to be so.
“As much as we want visitors in Delta State, we don’t want criminals in our communities. The law enforcement agencies are ready to deal with anybody or groups that want to engage in unholy activities in the state, no matter your connections or status.”
Azagba explained that governor Oborevwori is determined to protect the lives and properties of Deltans, including the herders, especially those who operate within the ambit of the law.
“Delta is a peace-loving state, and we will continue to maintain peace at all levels.” the Special Adviser emphasized.
Responding, the leader of the Herders in Ogume, Mr  Abdul, agreed to leave the areas within 45 days in Ogbe-Ole and Ogbe-Ogume where the communities said they forbid cows from entry.
According to Abdul, “We have lived with the Ogume people for over 15 years, and we will abide by the decisions of the state government because we want peace too.” He stated.

Delta Businessman Drags Customs Boss, Others To Court Over Ownership Of  Lexus 460

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Delta Businessman Drags Customs Boss, Others To Court Over Ownership Of  Lexus 460
Mr Onainor Patrick Ewere,Delta State-based businessman has dragged the Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Customs Service, among others before the Federal High Court in sitting in Asaba, the Delta State capital, over the ownership of a Lexus GX 460 with Chassis Number JTJBM7FX6C5045457.

In the writ of summons dated October 4, 2024, in a suit numbered FHC/ASB/CB/115/2024, between Mr Onainor as plaintiff and the CG of the NCS, the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, Mr Phillip Charles Utienyinrestsola and  Kazeem Balogun as defendants, a copy of which was obtained by South-South PUNCH, in Asaba, Mr Onainor, through his lawful attorney, Mrs. Franca Ewere, told the court that the plaintiff is the rightful owner and entitled to absolute possession of the said vehicle.

It reads “You are hereby commanded that within 30 days after the service of this writ on you, inclusive of the day of such service, you do cause an appearance to be entered for you in an action at the instance of Mr. Onainor Patrick Ewere.

“And take notice that in default of your so doing the plaintiff may proceed therein and judgment may be given in your absence.”

The writ also contain

“An order of declaration of this honourable court that the plaintiff is the rightful owner and entitled to absolute possession of the vehicle, that is, Lexus GX 460 with Chassis Number JTJBM7FX6C5045457 and CNumber-C28160 and Engine Number IUR0253508, subject matter of this suit.”

He declared before the court that the purported auction sale of the vehicle, that is, Lexus GX 460 with Chassis Number JTJBM7FX6C5045457 and C Number- C 28160 and Engine No. IUR0253508, the subject matter of this suit, by the 1st and 2nd defendants to the 5th defendant is illegal, null and void.

The plaintiff said the fifth defendant at all material time had no title whatsoever to pass to the fourth defendant in respect of the vehicle.

Onainor stated that on his way back, he informed the said officers of the 2nd defendant that the vehicle was duly cleared by officers of the 1st defendant, stationed at Tincan Island, Apapa, Lagos State after payment of all the necessary fees, including the payment of complete Customs duties, which was assessed at N700,440 at the material time.

He said, “I showed the officers of the 2nd defendant proof of four payments of customs duties, issued by the Customs Office, Tincan Island, Lagos State, but the said officers of the 2nd defendant remained adamant.

“They said I must pay a further sum of N2,500,000 in cash as additional Customs duties, before the vehicle, subject matter of this suit is released to me.

“While I was still trying to sort out the issue of payment of the additional Customs duties, the officers of the second defendant became hostile and drove off with my vehicle, the subject matter of this suit.

“The officers said that they were conveying the vehicle to the office in Benin City, Edo State, where the vehicle will be detained until the issue of payment of Customs duties is resolved. I was told to report to the office in Benin to resolve the issue.

“No retention/seizure notice was given to me by the said officers before my vehicle was confiscated and carted away. All attempts I made to locate the NCS officers and my vehicle, the subject matter of this suit proved abortive since 2018.

“I, immediately reported to the office in Benin, where I was informed by officers in Benin that n? vehicle matching the description of my vehicle, subject matter of this suit, was brought to their custody.”

The plaintiff averred that he also reported the incident to the offices of the second Defendant in Warri in Delta State, Owerri in Imo State and Lagos State; but all attempts to locate the vehicle; the subject matter of this suit was futile.

He said officers informed him that no vehicle matched the description of the said vehicle in the custody of the Nigeria Customs Service (second defendant), anywhere in Nigeria, saying that the vehicle was stolen in 2018 and recovered in July 2024.

He said the vehicle which was white before Customs allegedly stole it had been painted black and its external features changed in order to make it difficult to trace.

The plaintiff said the vehicle was intercepted in July 2024, by the police. Mr Utienyinrestsola was arrested in Warri axis after he failed to prove his ownership and claimed that he bought the vehicle from Kazeem Balogun a car dealer in Lagos, who also claimed that he bought the vehicle from a Customs’ auction. It was gathered that Messrs Utienyinrestsola and Balogun have been released while the said vehicle is currently at Delta State police custody.

Efforts made to reach the spokesperson of NCS, Abdullahi Maiwada, failed as calls and messages put across were not responded to at the time of filling this report.

But one of the officers at the NCS Public Relations Unit, who did not want to be mentioned because he was not authorised to speak on the matter, said, “I think, it’s not for you to call us about the court paper, it is left for the court to serve us the letter of invite, it has nothing to do with you.

“This is the Nigeria Customs Service PR unit, kindly write to the service.”

Culled from punch

Hon. Okwudili Excited as Okotete Rewards Loyalty at APC Women Empowerment Summit

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Hon. Okwudili Excited as Okotete Rewards Loyalty at APC Women Empowerment Summit

By: Ike Philip Abiagom & Benson Nwoko

The Delta State APC Woman Leader, Hon.(Mrs)Tina Okwudili has demonstrated exceptional leadership since she assumed office, in her quest to engender women’s visibility and inclusivity in governance, business and politics, which constituted her “tripartite approach” in line with the 35% affirmative action for women’s visibility, activism and inclusion in all governance processes. Under her leadership, the first ever Delta State APC women Empowerment Summit 2024 took place yesterday in collaboration with Executive Director, Business Development of the Nigerian Export -Import Bank (NEXIM), Hon Stella Okotete.

Delta State APC woman leader was excited as Okotete empowered over 2000 women from the twenty five local Government Area in Delta State. The Conference which climaxed in a resounding success introduced transformative initiatives and projects for the Progressive Women in Delta State.

Okwudili said the summit themed ‘Empowered To Serve’ had over 2000 women in attendance from all the twenty five local governments areas in the state, with 500 traders from other political parties decamping to the APC.

Earlier, Hon Okotete extolled the virtues of the women who stood by the party during the last election which led to the emergence of two senators, House of Representative members and 7 House of Assembly members.

She said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda holds hope and prosperous future for all.party faithful, adding that the wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has also assured that she would visit them in no distant future.

The event also witnessed empowerments for women who have been loyal and faithful to the party at all levels. Mrs Ejieh Helen, who is from Delta North; Mrs Rita Ogagarojor, Delta South; and Mrs Queen Ogedengbe, Delta Central; all got the sum of one million naira each, while Mrs Roseline Akamakowe, Endurance Akoka, Edewor Rose, Lizzy Unurhoro and Mercy Ochei got N500,000 each.

Other categories of beneficiaries got N250,000, N150,000, N100,000 and N50,000 respectively.

The Delta State APC Woman leader,Hon.(Mrs)Tina Okwudili said the gesture was aimed at empowering women which included widows, divorcees, orphans and other related vulnerable groups with a view of expanding their economic horizon by making them engage in productive ventures.She said the scope of the programme would be expanded in due course to reach others in Delta State, stressing that though the amount was meager but it would impact positively on the beneficiaries.

She called on the beneficiaries to use the money to run small scale businesses that would complement their other sources of income and make them less dependent on their husbands and relations.

The special guest at the event was the the National Woman Leader of (APC), Dr Mary Alile Idele, who described the Executive Director, Business Development of the Nigerian Export -Import Bank (NEXIM), Hon Stella Okotete, as a consistent, loyal and steadfast leader of the party whom she was so proud of.

In her address, Idele stated that the summit was more than just an event; but a call to action—a reminder of the immense potential that resides within every woman. The woman leader used the occasion to commend the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, state Woman Leader, Hon.(Mrs)Tina Okwudili and the foremost Leader, Hon. Stella Okotete, Executive Director ,Business Development, EXIM Bank who is the convener of this first Delta State APC Women Empowerment Summit 2024 for their positive initiatives by introducing numerous economic empowerment programmes for the people. She assured that such empowerment programmes would reduce poverty, crimes, indolence and laxity in the society, stressing the APC administration would continue to empower Nigerians in order to be productive and achieve self sustainability.

She described the empowerment as unprecedented, according to her no state has ever contemplated doing such beautiful empowerment programme. She therefore called on political appointees and those holding elective positions to emulate Hon. Stella Okotete by initiating similar programmes with a view to empowering Nigerians to be creative and productive.

The APC State Chairman Elder Omeni Sobotie, who was represented by his wife, Mrs Ify Sobotie also acknowledged the profound impact of Okotete whom he referred to as the Lioness of the Niger Delta.

Members of the State House of Assembly also took their turns to shower encomium on Okotete for demonstrating leadership and flying the flag of the party higher with her welfare programmes for the people.

The members of the assembly present were, Hon Dafe Emakpor, who is the Minority Leader , Hon Ebitonmo Anthony Alapala, Hon Benson Obire, Hon Spencer Obokpare Ohwofa, Hon Matthew Omonade, Hon Blessing Achoja and Hon Obie Egbetamah among others.

The Women Leader from Edo State, Lady Betty Okoebor Benson, asked the women to consider themselves lucky for having a women like H Okotete,and their state women leader Hon. Tina Okwudili. She tasked them to brace up and win the state for APC in 2027.

Mrs Ejieh Helen, one of the beneficiaries of one Million naira, commended the initiative of Hon. Stella Okotete and also thank their state Woman leader Hon(Mrs) Tina Okwudili. She assured them that they would make judicious utilisation of the fund by engaging in productive activities.

A Special Birthday Tribute to Ikechukwu Nwoko : An Enigma Like No Other

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A Special Birthday Tribute to Ikechukwu Nwoko : An Enigma Like No Other

By: Ike Philip Abiagom & Benson Nwoko

Mr Ikechukwu Nwoko
CEO, Iyke Computers

Age may be a number but life is certainly a battle. And if the life is that of the urbane and personable the Chairman of Iyke Computers, Ikechukwu Nwoko, then life is not only a battle–it is a full blown war. Ever since he adorned himself as a soldier for good, he has had no reprieve from the unrelenting forces of evil. He is caught in the vortex of the eternal battle between good and evil.Indeed, to those who know him up close and personal, Iyke is an enigma: humble, self-effacing, industrious, practical, efficient by nature, diligent, always thinking about things he needs to accomplish or how to get ahead on his next assignment, a complete Libra, if you care to assess him by his Zodiac sign. But in plain terms, he is a case of a man who set out to always make a difference wherever he found himself. Not the kind of difference other men pursue to grandstand, but the type that impacts humanity and makes life easier for people. And of this, his track record is unassailable. A look back at his trajectory gives a chronicle of exemplary service to his community and a profile of pure patriotism from an individual.

Greatness is a property for which no man can receive credit too soon; it must be possessed long before it is acknowledged. ”When one of the world’s greatest thinkers, Ralph Waldo Emerson handed down the above words of wisdom, those he had in mind were certainly the likes of Ikechukwu Nwoko.

For the trail-blazing Business mogul from Obomkpa, Delta State, it is certainly impossible to gloss over his attributes for greatness. He is the embodiment of cerebral articulation, the essence of unparalleled philanthropy, the epitome of intellection and breathtaking simplicity, the personification of undiluted humanness, the perfect example of business leadership symbolism, the paragon of idealism, the soul of humanity, the heart of warrior, a perfect gentleman.In the gallery of great leaders and great men, he is without doubt, a rare masterpiece. Anyone who encounters him would love to associate with him for his candour, courage and forthrightness. As a human being, his humility and modesty is second to none. As an Businessman, he is sound and engaging.

Ikechukwu Nwoko, he means different things to different people; to his wife and children, he is a loving husband and a kind daddy, while to us his admirers, he is known as the Digital Business Strategist but his detractors always erroneously see him as an obstacle because of his rising profile in business, Politics and acceptance by the grassroots.

Iyke is not only the Pride of Nwoko’s but also the Pride of the People of Aniocha North Local Government Area for whom he had waged countless business and political wars for and won virtually all, just like the Greek mythological Odyssey who fought and won difficult battles in History. Indeed the birthday celebration of this digital Businessman of our time had been useful and Resourceful for his service to humanity. Therefore today let me on behalf of Most Distinguished Senator Peter Onyelukachukwu Nwaoboshi (SPON) Political Family join the rest of my beloved brothers  and Nigerians at large to celebrate our Business and Political iconoclastic Iyke Computers International, to thank Almighty God for adding another year to his life and to pray that God continues to bless him with robust health, protection, and enduring provision. Your business reign shall bring prosperity and peace to Delta State and Nigeria in general.

Your legendary generosity and willingness to do good at all times is documented in the hearts of millions. That is why on your birthday, You deserves a toast and song, “Happy birthday to you…” Above all, You deserves a prayer from everyone who is on the side of truth in the eternal battle between truth and falsehood.

Happy birthday to the regent, Chairman, Iyke Computers.

Facts of the Matter: Governor Sim Vs Martins Amaehule and 26 Members of the RSHA

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Facts of the Matter: Governor Sim Vs Martins Amaehule and 26 Members of the RSHA

It is not about being eloquent; matters of the Judiciary are not for eloquent speakers or natural thinkers.

Court orders are Orders where Reliefs are sought! As long as Orders have been made, they are enforceable until a higher court says otherwise. And that is why the Appellant, Gov Fubara is on his way to the Supreme Court even though his case is helpless. Only a political Solution can help him now.

On the issue of “defection”, I laugh when I see people talk without reference to the laws. If I may ask, as a politician, where do people join a political party, in their bedrooms, boardrooms or upper rooms?

The law is clear. Defection means you have first left your party and joined another party by registration in your Ward. After which you can now flaunt your membership card or flag. You don’t announce your membership before you are registered. What if the party refuses to accept you? The only evidence of membership of a party or organisation or even a Church is your name listed in the membership register and an ID or card or another evidence issued to you. That’s how it is also with leaving your party for another. You can announce that you are leaving but it can only amount to legality when you fulfill the requirement for the membership of the other party. Let me even stop here. The judgment of Justice Lifu of the FHC Abuja has punctured that issue of defection. You need to get it. It has further validated what Justice Gbasam of the Rivers State High Court had earlier ruled. The Governor failed to give reasons at the trial court why he presented the budget to Ehie Edison. That’s what the Appeal Court ruled. He cannot remedy it at a higher Court. Section 109 subsection 1g is very clear. Individual members of the Assembly represent different constituencies where they were voted for. If they are leaving for another party, they MUST write their individual letters to the Speaker who will read each of the letters according to this section. There is nothing like group defection with a group letter, which even doesn’t exist. The onus is on those who claim that the 27 lawmakers have defected to prove their case with evidence before the FHC as stated by the Constitution. We are still waiting for that evidence till now. Dem go explain tire, no evidence.

On the So-Called Affidavit:

Let me also help you to comprehend the facts of the matter as it lies with the laws: the issue is not before any court as it stands now. It was a suit filed by Amaewhule and 26 others before Justice Okorowo formerly of the FHC. The Affidavits were not pleaded before the court. With the Judge promoted to the Appeal Court, the case can only be reassigned to another Judge by the CJ of the FHC. Till today, it has not and the litigants are no longer pursuing the matter having gotten Justice from the Court of Appeal. It may also interest you to note that the so-called Affidavit of “we defected” has been amended to read “intention to defect”. So, where does your argument fit in? You don’t need to dissipate energy. This is for the benefit of those who may unknowingly believe the distorted position on the matter.

Edo governor-elect alleges looting of funds, govt properties by Obaseki-led administration

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Edo governor-elect alleges looting of funds, govt properties by Obaseki-led administration

The Governor-elect of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Wednesday, told banks and other financial institutions to avoid approving loans to any government official in the outgoing Godwin Obaseki-led administration.

Okpebholo appealed in a statement released in Abuja on Wednesday night. Less than one month to hand over of power in Edo state, the Governor-Elect,  Senator Monday Okpebholo, has the raised alarm over the massive looting of government funds and properties by officials of the out-going administration.

In a statement, Senator Okpebholo accused the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration of taking unscrupulous loans from banks and other financial institutions while government officials were also feasting on properties including vehicles, furniture and rice, looting them with careless abandon.

Okpebholo in the statement said: “With a great shock, we regret the widespread reports of looting of government funds and properties by officials of the out-going administration from the Government House, Benin City.

“It is sad that barely one month to handover, the out-going administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki is still allegedly obtaining loans from banks and other financial institutions under very shady headings.

“We are also aware of the massive looting and vandalisation of properties including vehicles, furniture, gadgets, household utensils and even carpets from offices and residences of Edo state Government.

“This unacceptable behavior undermines the trust and faith of our citizens in those entrusted to serve them in the past 8 years.”

The governor-elect in the statement called on the relevant authorities including the EFCC, Police and DSS “to investigate the allegations thoroughly and ensure that those found guilty are held accountable while protecting Government House and offices from vandals.”

Sounding a note of warning, the statement added that “banks and other financial institutions are by this notice, cautioned to desist from any dealings that will undermine the finances of the state, especially giving out of loans to government at this period of transition.

“The Accountant General of Edo state, is hereby advised to uphold the principle of integrity in his duty, as the only act that will put his name in gold. There will be dire consequences for any act of impunity and stealing on any person or institution found wanting in this regard.”

Okpebholo, however added that the incoming administration will continue to monitor the situation until the last day of the out-going administration.

The statement concluded by saying that Okpebholo will not condone any form of unethical behavior as he stresses zero-tolerance for corruption.

Real Estate guru,Leo Nkeaka,honoured

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Real Estate guru,Leo Nkeaka,honoured

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

In recent times, it has been a cascade of honours for the young consummate businessman and Ibusa born realtor, Hon. Leo Nkeaka, (OHAMADIKE 1). For the dynamic Chairman of Lion XXY Genuine Global Properties, he has been receiving a lot of recognition stemming from his giant strides in the area of real estate as well as his several contributions in the field of humanity where he has carved a niche for himself.

The prestigious Coalition of Peace Magazine Awards ceremony held on October 25th at Marable Arch Hotel, Awka , was a celebration of remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication of individuals who have shaped our communities. Among the distinguished awardees was Hon. Leo Nkeaka, a seasoned Realtor based in Asaba and Special Aide to Most Distinguished Senator Peter Onyelukachukwu Nwaoboshi.

His exceptional contributions to the Real Estate business have left an indelible mark.  Hon. Nkeaka’s professional prowess has elevated the sector. But his impact extends beyond the sales and the marketing realm—he has been a mentor to countless young ones, guiding them toward successful careers in the Real Estate sector.

The evening concluded with a sense of optimism—a collective commitment to a brighter community future. These awardees, through their expertise, mentorship, and leadership, continue to inspire the next generation of young Nigerians. As Hon. Leo Nkeaka aptly put it, “Our legacy lies not only in what we achieve but in how we empower others to follow in our footsteps.”

The Peace Magazine/Community Awards serve as a reminder that progress is a collaborative effort—one that bridges generations and fuels the nation’s growth.

Congratulations !

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