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Author: Deborah Coker

  • Nwoko holds interactive session to unite constituents in Abuja

    Sen. Ted Nwoko addressing Anioma residents during an interactive session in Abuja on Sunday

     

    Unity

    By Deborah Coker

    Abuja, June 15, 2024 (NAN), Sen. Ned Nwoko (PDP-Delta), representing Delta North Senatorial District, held an interactive session with residents of the Anioma community on Sunday in Abuja.

    Nwoko said he initiated the event to recognise his constituents in the FCT, build relationships, and seek their input to better address their needs and concerns.

    He the objective of the interactive session included uniting all Anioma people in Abuja, and to encourage them to share information about budget placements, capacity-building initiatives, job opportunities, among others.

    “First, it seeks to unite all Anioma people in Abuja and its environs under one umbrella and inform you about my duties in the senate and my responsibilities to you as your senator.

    “Secondly it aims to encourage you to share information about budget placements, capacity-building initiatives, job opportunities, training programmes, and career development within your agencies and ministries so that I can facilitate access to these opportunities for our people,” he said.

    He noted that the array of personalities present at the event signified a positive step towards realising his vision for the people of Anioma.

    “You must know what we are doing in the National Assembly. The National Assembly is here to serve you.

    “You need to understand my duties and the services I owe you. Whether it’s on jobs, health issues, or community matters, you have someone in the Federal Government to attend to your needs and concerns.

    “How do you gain access to me or my office if you don’t know my willingness to serve you? I didn’t come to NASS just to hold the title of Senator; I know my duties and I am committed to them.

    “Many of you hold key positions in various government agencies and ministries, and I seek your advice and partnership to serve our people effectively,” the lawmaker said.

    Speaking on his bill for the creation of Anioma State, the senator stressed the importance of the creation of state over regional classification.


    According to him, whether Anioma is South-South or South-East should not be the focus.

    “What’s most important to discuss is that Anioma is poised to become a highly significant and viable state. We already have six out of nine local government areas producing oil and gas.

    “In addition, Anioma boasts of numerous talented and important individuals. In spite of current challenges, Emefiele will continue to be a prominent figure in Anioma.

    “We also have people like Tony Elumelu, Jim Ovia, and other notable personalities. We have all the talents we need to excel in all areas, be it sports or academics,” he said.

    In his remarks, Chief Godfrey Odogwu, President General of the Asaba Development Union, Abuja branch, said the creation of Anioma State was long overdue.

    He underscored the importance of this for every son and daughter of Anioma.

    The high point of the event was a vote of confidence on Nwoko by the Anioma community in Abuja.

    Mr Patrick Obi, Branch President of Ogwashi-Uku Development Association, leading the vote of confidence, said, “We have been assured that we have a Senator. Doors have never been this open for us.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    DCO/SA

    Edited by Salif Atojoko

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  • Nwoko salutes Muslims at Eid-el Kabir, urges sacrifice for nation building

    Obedience
    By Deborah Coker

    Abuja, June 15, 2024 (NAN) As Muslims prepare for Eid-el Kabir festival commencing on Sunday, Sen. Ned Nwoko (PDP-Delta), has called for more devotion to the teachings of the religion and total obedience to the Will of Allah.

    Nwoko, who represents Delta North Senatorial District, gave the charge in his Eid-el Kabir message to the Muslim faithful on Saturday in Abuja.

    He urged Nigerians not to despair as the leadership of the country was not unaware of their sacrifices and resilience.

    He noted that Eid-el Kabir symbolises and commemorates the ultimate act of willingness, devotion and obedience to Almighty Allah, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim.

    According to him, the act holds profound meaning and significance for Muslims.

    “I charge my Muslim brothers and sisters as well as every Nigerian to be devoted and obedient to the Almighty Allah.

    “I urge our Muslim faithful to come together and let love lead as we mark Eid-el Kabir, otherwise known as the feast of sacrifice.

    “I assure Nigerians that their sacrifices and resilience are not unnoticed and, in due course, they shall reap the benefits.”

    The lawmaker urged Nigerians to continue praying for the country so that the challenges bedeviling it would be surmounted. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    DCO/ETS
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  • Eid-il-Kabir: NSCDC expands intelligence network in Edo

    Eid-il-Kabir: NSCDC expands intelligence network in Edo

    Intelligence
    By Deborah Coker

    Abuja, June 14, 2024 (NAN) The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)  has expanded an Intelligence network ahead of Sunday’s Eid -el-Kabir celebrations in Edo.

    This is contained in a statement on Friday by Mr Efosa Ogbebor, Head Public Relations and Media Unit of the command and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), in Abuja.

    According to Ogbebor, the state Commandant of the corps, Agun Gbenga disclosed this while highlighting the command’s preparation for the Sallah celebration as well as the public holidays.

    Gbenga said that the command had also deployed 1,210 personnel to provide maximum security at various Eid prayer grounds, palaces, monuments, and recreational centres across the state.

    “The command has expanded its Intelligence network with the view to nip in the bud any security threat in the state during the period.

    “I assure you that the security of lives and property of residents of the state before, during, and after the festive celebration remained our priority in the command.

    “I have directed all commanders, heads of tactical units, area commanders, and divisional officers to ensure a smooth crime free and secured celebration before during and after the Eid-el-Kabir celebration”, he said.

    The commandant further appealed to members of the public to give maximum cooperation to the personnel of the corps as well as support them with useful information on the activities of criminal elements. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    DCO/SH
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    edited by Sadiya Hamza

  • End pervasive influence of “godfatherism’ – Nwoko

    “Godfatherism”

    By Deborah Coker

    Abuja, June 12, 2024 (NAN) Sen. Ned Nwoko (PDP-Delta) has advocated an end to pervasive influence of “godfatherism”, for the nation’s democracy to yield desired dividends.

    Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, said this on Wednesday in Abuja, in his democracy day message, made available to newsmen.

    “Godfatherism” is “a term used primarily in Nigeria, to refer to a political corruption, in which an influential individual handpicks another, often less influential candidate to attain leadership, in order to exert authority or influence”

    “Our electoral process needs to be seamless and transparent, free from the pervasive influence of godfatherism and the blight of nepotism”, he said.

    The lawmaker added that democracy thrives on the active participation and engagement of its citizens.

    “It requires a collective commitment to uphold justice, fairness, and equality.

    “As we honour the legacy of those who fought for our democratic freedoms, let us also recognise our responsibility to address these systemic issues”, he said.

    Nwoko added that democracy is more than just a system of governance; as it is the embodiment of collective aspirations for freedom, equality, and justice.

    He therefore charged all Nigerians to confront the challenges hindering the full realisation of democracy dividends.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    DCO/ROT
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    Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

  • Democracy Day: INC urges FG to restore confidence in Nigerians

    Democracy

    By Deborah Coker

    Abuja, June 12, 2024 (NAN) Prof. Benjamin Okaba, President, Ijaw National Congress (INC), has urged the Federal Government to take urgent steps to restore the confidence and genuine hope of Nigerians in the country.

    Okaba made the call in his democracy day message made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Wednesday.

    He noted that June 12 was worth celebrating considering the relative human rights and freedom Nigerians are enjoying under civilian administrations and the need to consciously immortalise the Iconic democrat, Chief M.K.O Abiola.

    According to him, the return to democratic rule has at least given Nigerians some level of opportunity to choose their political leaders and to some extent, advance the exercise of citizen’s right.

    “No doubt, the worst democratic government is far better than any military regime, at least judging from our past experiences as a nation.

    “However the current Federal Government should take urgent steps to overcome the hardship facing Nigerians.

    “The federal government should also take steps to restore confidence in the masses who are battling with various livelihood and life threatening challenges such as insecurity, inflation, unemployment and criminality.

    “Nigerians are becoming increasingly hopeless and helpless with each passing day,” he said.

    The INC president also noted that Nigeria’s 25th Democracy Day celebration was a significant milestone which had raised a number of expectations from the government at all levels.

    This, he said included dealing with issues of peace and peaceful coexistence, mutual tolerance, economic growth and stability, improved security of lives and properties, advancement of educational and healthcare services.

    Other areas of expectations he said included economic empowerment, job creation, good governance, strategic anti-corruption efforts and an all inclusive decision-making processes.

    “The Nigerian citizens are in dare need for tangible progress that would translate into positive change for all, irrespective of class, gender, creed and ethnic differences.

    “The oil and gas rich Niger Delta region, which is a critical component of Nigeria’s economy, expects the current administration to without any further delay, address the multifaceted challenges facing it.

    “This is in terms of infrastructure development, environmental remediation, economic empowerment, good governance and security,” he said.

    Okaba also said that the Ijaw people who were one of the four largest ethnic nationalities and major producers of oil and gas resources in the country expected greater commitment from President Tinubu’s administration.

    According to him, this is to deal with her peculiar and persistent problems and concerns of resource injustice, lack of political inclusion, and representation in key political positions and decision-making processes as well as environmental degradation.

    “The Ijaw quest for true federalism is rooted in their desire for greater autonomy, resource control and self-determination that would enable them to manage their affairs more effectively and promote their overall well-being.

    “We wish to express our satisfaction with President Tinubu’s stance on restructuring.

    “While we appreciate the need for more efficient management of our local government councils, which are the 3rd tier of government, we wish to caution those seeking local government council autonomy to first and foremost tackle a more fundamental injustice.

    “This injustice is the one created by the wide disparity in the number of local government areas per state, where Kano for instance has 44 and Bayelsa at the other extreme has only 8.

    “It is on this note that I implore the federal government led by President Bola Tinubu to take critical steps that will restore confidence and genuine hope in Nigerians.”

    He reiterated that citizens also have pivotal roles to play in taking the country out of the conundrum.

    “Moving forward, let us make a commitment to remain patriotic and united as one people, as well as be good ambassadors of Nigeria,” he added. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    DCO/EMAF
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    Edited by Emmanuel Afonne

  • Defence ministry staff protest alleged manhandling of colleague

     

    Defence ministry staff protest alleged manhandling of colleague

    Protest

    By Deborah Coker

    Abuja, June 11, 2024 (NAN) Civilian members of staff of the Ministry of Defence in Abuja on Tuesday protested against alleged  inhuman treatment of their colleague in Lagos by some military personnel.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the protesting workers locked the gates to the ministry preventing staffers and visitors from entering or exiting the premises.

    NAN also reports that the protesting staff displayed banners with inscriptions such as ”we say no to military brutality”, ”they brought in dogs to intimidate us”, “civilians are not slaves to the soldiers”, among others.

    A source, who spoke with NAN on the condition of anonymity, said the protest was in connection with the treatment meted out to a staff in the Lagos office.

     

    “A civilian, a staff in Lagos, interfered when he saw some soldiers punishing some students by making them roll in muddy water.

    “He was recording the incident when an army officer demanded for his cell phone. He refused and insisted that the phone was his personal property.

    “Some soldiers with the army officer said his (staffer)’s action was disrespectful to their superior and started beating the man.

    “The man is currently hospitalised in Lagos, That is why Staffers of the ministry here are protesting in solidarity with our counterpart in Lagos,” the source told NAN.

    The source recalled that a civilian staffer died not long ago after being tortured by some personnel of the Nigerian Navy in Lagos.

    “We are saying enough is enough,” the source said.

    He said that the management of the ministry had promised that such would not happen again.

    “But with this recent incident, it means that the promise was just mere talk.

    “This is the reason that the latest assault is being met with anger. We are feeling really bad about this Lagos incident,” the source said.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    DCO/JPE

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    Edited by Joseph Edeh

  • Fight Against Insecurity: Is it yet an Uhuru?

    Fight Against Insecurity: Is it yet an Uhuru?

    By Deborah Coker, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

    For more than one decade Nigeria has battled various forms of insecurity. They range from Boko Haram insurgency in the North East, Banditry in the North West and North Central to militancy and oil theft in the South-South.

    In the South East, the fear of gunmen is the beginning of wisdom. Farmers and herders continue to clash in parts of North Central and South West.

    These security challenges are a major strain on the country’s human and material resources. According to Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project, (ACLED) Nigeria recorded no fewer than 4,556 fatalities and 7,086 abductions in the last one year.

    ACLED is a global data hub that collects real-time conflict-related data.

    Among others, the data showed that banditry in the North-west leads other with 1,475 deaths and 4,343 abductions while in the North-central there were 552 incidents of banditry, even as farmers-herders conflict and cultism claimed at least 1,444 lives.

    In addition, about 1,321 abductions were recorded in the region. In the South-South a total of 231 violent incidents majorly cultism-related and militancy were recorded resulting in at least 336 deaths. There were 295 abductions.

    According to reports, between 2015 and 2021, Nigeria spent ₦8 trillion on defence. Global Terrorism Index in 2023 ranked the country as the 8th country most impacted by terrorism globally.

    On assumption of office on May 29, 2023, President Bola Tinubu promised to frontally address the security challenges and he is keeping to that pledge according to Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru.

    According to him, since Tinubu administration was inaugurated that several key terrorists and bandits have been captured or neutralised just as a large cache of arms and ammunition were recovered.

    Badaru said that while 245 kidnapped victims have been rescued, 61 HH radio, 223 vehicles, 363 motorcycles, and 551 mobile phones were recovered.

    He also said that troops of the Armed Forces have denied the oil thieves of an estimated N91,247,052,565 as well as recovered 92,547,601,541 litres of stolen crude oil, 61,469,999 litres of illegally refined AGO and 3,920,549 litres of DPK among others.

    According to the minister in a bid to improve national security and defend the nation’s territorial integrity, the ministry enhanced synergy within the armed forces of Nigeria and other security agencies.

    He said that defence equipment was procured, just as there was improvement in production and capacity development of personnel of Armed Forces of Nigeria.

    “We also enhanced personnel welfare, increased partnership with friendly nations/organisations and sustained stakeholders engagement session.

    “The ministry ensured strict adherence to stipulated guidelines such as standard operating procedures, rules of engagement among others.

    “This has contributed greatly to the feat recorded in tackling insecurity in the country”, the minister said.

    Reports by military sources say that in the past one year no fewer than 9,300 bandits and terrorists have been neutralized while about 7,000 others were arrested, and 4,882 assorted weapons and 83,900 munitions recovered.

    The results indeed are showing, on one of the recent operations by the  troops of the Nigerian Army conducted in Zamafara and Katsina killed no fewer than 11 terrorists were killed and a large cache of arms and ammunition recovered.

    With the feat recorded by the AFN with the supervision of the Ministry of Defence in the fight against insecurity, can Nigerians say it is yet an uhuru?

    Chief Sunday Emeyese, a legal practitioner, the security situation in the country has improved tremendously under the Tinubu administration when compared or juxtaposed with the Buhari administration.

    “The regularity and incessant cases of unwarranted attacks and bombings by bandits has reduced.

    “Kidnapping too is on the decline. However, Fulani herdsmen and communal attacks have not abated.

    “The Tinubu administration must thus rise to the occasion and ensure that the issue of unbridled insecurity in the country becomes a thing of the past or is reduced to the barest minimum”, he said.

    Similarly immediate past Edo Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu said that the security situation in the country now was not as bad as it used to.

    According to him, the situation is not as bad as it used to be. I can bet that it’s gradually stabilising. I can tell you that the level of insecurity in the country is going down.

    ‘’We are not yet there, but I can bet that it is not what it used to be, So I can say kudos to the president and the present sets of security heads. They are bringing the temperature down.

    ‘’But I think they still need to do more”, he said.

    In the fight against insecurity it is important to keep eyes on the ball.

    Mr Tobi Akinwole, a driver, said that though the insecurity situation has greatly reduced, there was the need for the government to sustain the success recorded.

    Akinwole advised the government not relent in attacking the terrorists and bandits.

    “Yes we are witnessing a decline in insecurity now in the country now. But we are not yet where we should be. People still have fears when they want to travel from one part of the country to the other, especially by road.

    “And this is because they think that these terrorists and bandits and kidnappers can strike at any time.

    “During the reign of the immediate past administration, these people operated without any fear. The Nigeria government cannot afford to relax now that we are experiencing some form of relief”, he said. (NANFeatures)

    **If used please credit the writer and News Agency of Nigeria.

  • Nigerian Army Education Corps pulls out 16 Generals

    Nigerian Army Education Corps pulls out 16 Generals

    Pull-out
    By Deborah Coker

    Abuja, June 3, 2024 (NAN)The Nigerian Army Education Corps (NAEC) has pulled out 16 Generals who retired from active military service.

    This is contained in a statement issued by Capt .Yemi Sokoya, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters, Nigerian Army Education Corps in Abuja.

    Sokoya said that the event took place at the Sobi Military Cantonment, Ilorin.

    He also said that the pulling out parade was to celebrate the illustrious and selfless service the retired Generals have rendered to the Nigerian Army, NAEC and the nation at large.

    Sokoya said that in a key note address, retired Maj.-Gen. Muktar Bunza, the Special Guest of Honour and also one of the celebrants said that it was a thing of gratitude to have the opportunity to serve the nation.

    According to him, today, we are extremely grateful for the opportunities to serve our nation. Our service years had indeed given us the leeway to significantly contribute to the growth and development of the NAEC and NA in general.”

    Bunza noted that the NAEC had remained an elite corps in the NA, adding that the place of the corps in the history and development of the NA as a pacesetter in human capacity development in art, science, curriculum as well as languages were still relevant.

    He implored the corps to always be ahead through proactive application of science and technology to help the NA achieve its dynamic responsibilities.

    He expressed his gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja for his unwavering support to the corps, especially his commitment to the sustainability of Command Schools and reviving their past glory.

    This he said was through strategic interventions in infrastructural development which had been pivotal.

    He also appealed to the COAS to continue with the noble endeavor to ensure Command Schools once again become citadels of excellence in education across the country.

    He further expressed appreciation to the Commander, NAEC, Maj.-Gen. Baba Alhaji Tsoho for organising the pulling out parade.

    Bunza also commended the commitment and determined resolve of the commander to put the corps in its rightful position.

    To his fellow retirees, he said, “with utmost respect, our legacy and wisdom are invaluable to the NAEC, NA and the nation as a whole.

    “Let us keep the corps close to our hearts, offering guidance and support whenever needed.

    “Our experience and insights are crucial as NAEC navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    DCO/SH
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    edited by Sadiya Hamza