By: Ike Philip Abiagom

Distinguished Senator Peter Onyelukachukwu Nwaoboshi(SPON) has congratulated the immediate past Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege on his 61st Birthday Anniversary.

Nwaoboshi said that Senator Omo-Agege displayed remarkable leadership and legislative acumen when he was Deputy Senate President of Nigeria. His tenure was marked by a commitment to democratic principles, effective governance, and advocacy for policies that promote the welfare of all Nigerians. He played a pivotal role in advancing legislative initiatives that have positively impacted the socio-economic landscape of our country, and his efforts in championing the interests of the Niger Delta region have been particularly commendable.

Senator Nwaoboshi said that his work has consistently reflected a deep understanding of the issues facing our communities, and his advocacy has brought about significant improvements in areas such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare. His leadership continues to inspire and guide those who follow in his footsteps.

As we celebrate this milestone in Senator Omo-Agege’s life, we acknowledge his enduring legacy and the positive influence he has had on our state and nation. His contributions to the political and socio-economic fabric of Nigeria serve as an inspiration to current and future leaders, emphasizing the importance of integrity, resilience, and dedication to the greater good. “He has invested his intelligence, experience and energy in promoting amity and productivity in the red chamber.

He prayed God to continue to grant Senator Omo-Agege good health, strength and wherewithal for greater relevance to the state, the nation and humanity.

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

It was a colourful celebration in Umueze Igbuzor, in Oshimili North Local Government areas of Delta State as Lady (Mrs) Patricia Uti celebrate her 80th birthday in a grand style.

The joy of every mother in their latter days is to live to witness the success of their children and reap the sweat of their labor and exemplary upbringing. It is also gratifying and heartwarming to see your children celebrates you when still on mother Earth, This was the uncommon feeling of Lady(Mrs)Patricia Uti the wife of illustrious son of Umueze,unbeatable,adorable and Elegant High Chief(Sir)Fidelis Uti as he alongside his ever supportive family members threw a private but superlative birthday bash for his dotting wife,Lady (Mrs) Patricia Uti on the occasion of the matriarch’s 80th birthday in grand style.

It was a day filled with joy, love, and laughter as family, in-laws, friends, and well-wishers gathered at the family house of High Chief(Sir)Fidelis Uti, Umueze-Igbuzor to honor the matriarch of the Uti family. Lady Uti’s birthday celebration was an occasion to cherish, a testament to the impact she has had on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

The event was graced by the presence of esteemed guests, who joined in the festivities to celebrate a woman of strength, wisdom, and grace. The joyous atmosphere was infectious, reflecting the love and respect that Lady (Mrs) Patricia Uti has inspired in those around her.

The highlight of the celebration was undoubtedly the heartfelt tributes shared by family members, acknowledging Lady Uti’s unwavering support, love, and guidance throughout the years. It was a deeply touching display of gratitude and admiration for a woman who has been a pillar of strength for her family.

The birthday cake was a sight to behold, adorned with colorful decorations that captured the spirit of the occasion. As Lady Uti cut the cake, surrounded by her loved ones, the venue was filled with a sense of warmth and togetherness that encapsulated the essence of the celebration.
Fidelis Uti (Jr.), led the tribute to his mother, expressing his profound appreciation for her influence in shaping the person he has become. His heartfelt words resonated with everyone present, serving as a poignant reminder of the profound impact a mother’s love and guidance can have on the lives of those she touches.
As the festivities continued, guests enjoyed a sumptuous spread of traditional delicacies and refreshments, adding to the convivial atmosphere of the celebration. The joyful sounds of music and laughter filled the air, creating unforgettable memories that will be cherished for years to come.

Throughout the day, Lady Uti’s radiant smile lit up the arena, a testament to the happiness and love that surrounded her on this special occasion. Her grace and poise were an inspiration to all, embodying the beauty of a life well-lived and the wisdom that comes with age.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Lady (Mrs) Patricia Uti on her 80th birthday and wish her many more years of love, joy, and good health. May her life continue to be a shining example of resilience, kindness, and the enduring power of family bonds. Happy Birthday, Mama Uti.

By: Ike Philip Abiagom & Benson Nwoko

Respite is under way for motorists and commuters in Delta State Capital, Asaba, as the Federal Ministry of Works, has commenced repairs of federal roads (Benin-Asaba Express Road)in Delta State.

The palliative work according to the Acting Federal Controller(FC), in charge of Delta State, Engr. Matthew Ogar,is in keeping with the mandate of the Federal Government.

Engr. Ogar who conducted newsmen round some of the affected roads, said the action was aimed at making federal roads in the state accessible. He also said that the intervention was in compliance with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, to make life easy and enjoyable for Nigerians.
According to him, these failed section are primarily due to blocked water channels, resulting in water accumulation on the roadway.

Ogar noted that such problem could be be addressed by actively desilting existing lined drains and constructing additional ones to ensure proper drainage.
Ogar who explained that the repairs and patch works were being executed through contracts, appealed to commuters in the state to be patient with the agency, assuring that other federal roads in the state will also receive attention based on the availability of resources.

According to him, the delays in intervention is usually caused by the bureaucracy involved in approvals concerning those that require contracts.

The State Commission for Works (Rural and Riverine Roads), Mr. Charles Aniagwu, was also at the spot to monitor the progress of work. In an interview with Newsbreeze, Mr. Aniagwu said Governor Sheriff Oborevwori was worried about the difficulties commuters had faced since the road failed, adding that the state government had constantly interfaced with the relevant Federal authorities on the matter.
The Commissioner revealed that the State Ministry of Works had concluded plans to intervene in the rehabilitation of the failed section before the Federal Ministry of Works , through the Acting Federal Controller of Works in the state, Engr. Matthew Ogar, prevailed on the contractor awarded the job to treat the problem with utmost urgency.

He said government would want to see a lasting respite for users of the road and urged the contractor to mobilize more to be able to quickly fix the road to standard considering the heavy traffic on the highway.
The contractor handling the failed roads, Hartland Civil Engineering Construction Company has mobilized equipment and personnel to the failed section of the Chiedu Oko building materials market axis of the Onitsha- Benin highway, by Ezenei Avenue junction, Asaba.

According to the Project Manager of the Company, Engr. Duke, the flooded lane is currently being bailed, after which rehabilitation work would follow in earnest. The Project Manager assured that within few days the road will be motorable again.

While inspecting the ongoing repairs of the failed road,the Acting Federal Controller in Delta State, Engr. Matthew Ogar,said the ministry is taking advantage of the directive by the Federal Government to ensure that all critically failed sections of the federal roads are fixed as soon as possible. He said the federal Government is not resting on its oars to make federal roads safe and motorable for Nigerians.

As the planned nationwide protest against bad governance and economic hardship gathers momentum, protesters have listed out their demands.

Newsmirror reports that the protest has been scheduled to be held across all states of the Federation as well as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, in August.

Food and basic commodities prices have skyrocketed recently. Nigerians are facing one of the worst inflation and economic crises due to the government’s removal of petrol subsidies and the unification of foreign exchange rates.

As a result of this, Nigerians have decided to hit the streets to make their voices heard.

Protesters have vowed to continue their demonstrations until major changes are made.

The protesters have also declared that if any protester is killed, maimed, or arrested during the protest, they will not back down until Tinubu and his entire cabinet resign.

Below are the Protesters’ Demands:

Fuel Price Reduction: Revert petrol pump price to N100 per litre.

Address Insecurity and Hunger: Combat insecurity and hunger by closing all IDP camps and resettling the campers.

Electoral Reform: Implement total electoral reform and conduct an independent probe into the electoral budget of N355 billion.

Release #EndSARS Detainees: Immediate release of all #EndSARS protesters still in detention.

Living Wage: Implement a living wage with a minimum of N300,000.

Free Education: Compulsory free education from primary to secondary school, and an education grant at the tertiary level.

Public School Mandate: Ensure that children of all public office holders attend public schools in the country.

Support Local Products: The government must patronize made-in-Nigeria goods.

Unicameral Legislature: Transition to a unicameral legislature.

Additional Demands are, New Constitution: Scrap the 1999 Constitution and replace it with a people-made constitution through a Sovereign National Conference, followed by a National Referendum.

Abolish Senate: Eliminate the Senate, retain the House of Representatives, and make lawmaking a part-time endeavor.

Higher Minimum Wage: Set a minimum wage of at least N250,000 monthly for Nigerian workers.

Education Investment: Invest heavily in education, ensuring free and compulsory education across Nigeria.

Release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu: Unconditionally release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and demilitarize the South East.

Renationalize Enterprises: Renationalize publicly owned enterprises sold to government officials and cronies.

Subsidy Regime: Reinstate a corruption-free subsidy regime to reduce hunger, starvation, and poverty.

Corruption Probe: Probe past and present Nigerian leaders who have looted the treasury, recover their loot, and reinvest it.

Restructuring for Diversity: Restructure Nigeria to accommodate its diversity, resource control, decentralization, and regional development.

Security Reforms: Reform security agencies to stop human rights violations and enhance citizens’ physical security.

Energy Fund: Establish a Special Energy Fund for power sector development.

Electoral Body Reconstitution: Reconstitute INEC to remove corrupt and partisan officials.

Public Works Investment: Invest in public works and industrialization to employ Nigerian youths.

Judiciary Overhaul: Shake up the judiciary to remove corrupt judges and officers, ensuring real justice for citizens.

Diaspora Voting: Introduce diaspora voting to allow Nigerians abroad to vote.

Smoking and drinking have been prohibited on the protest ground

Read more at Town Crier https://towncriernews.com.ng/planned-nationwide-demonstration-protesters-makes-demand/

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

The Association of Community Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria(ACNPN) has lamented the deplorable state of federal roads in the Delta state capital, Asaba and across the three senatorial districts of the state and appealed to President Bola Tinubu to intervene.
Deltans and people plying on the federal road spoke during the the Association of Community Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria(ACNPN) inspection tour of some of the deplorable federal roads in Delta State and to alleviate the current nightmare been experienced by the commuters on the roads.

After seeing the deplorable nature of the Asaba/ Benin express Road, Asaba/ Onitsha Express Road, and the pain of the commuters, it is beyond maintenance. It needs total rehabilitation. The Federal roads in Delta State capital Asaba connect major cities and states in the South-East geopolitical zone of the country. In Nigeria, statistics have shown that the roads as strategic routes carry 70 per cent of road traffic in the country and they represent about 17 per cent of the national road network of the 200,000 kilometres.

“The Community Publisher is pained by what Nigerians are passing through on these roads and we are disturbed because what is happening here is affecting the economy of the state and that of the nation,’’ he said.

Community Newspaper Publisher appealed to the Federal Ministry of Works ( Federal Controller) in Delta State to prevail on the contractors to fix the roads urgently owing to their importance to the nation’s socio-economic activities.