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Author: Ifeanyi Olannye

  • Group tasks Gov. Oborevwori on LG polls

    Election

    By Ifeanyi Olannye

    Asaba, June 29, 2024 (NAN) The Delta Obidient Elders Council have tasked Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori on the need to ensure that the scheduled July 13  Local Government Elections in the state were transparent, free, fair and credible.

    The group gave the charge while briefing newsmen after its meeting on Saturday in Asaba.

    The Council Chairman, Mr Chris Biose, said the Obidient movement did not belong to the Labour Party (LP).

    According to him, the Obidient Movement constitutes a category of Nigerians from all walks of life, home and in diaspora; it  has no place in the organogram of the LP.

    “Obidients found Mr Peter Obi as a vehicle for the realisation of their mission of good governance for Nigeria and therefore embraced him, and LP massively supported him in the Feb. 25, 2023 Presidential election.

    “This informed why some Obidients withdrew their support for LP in subsequent elections where Obi was not the candidate.

    “In Delta, the leadership of LP failed to express appreciation to Obidient Youths across political party lines who engaged in self-sponsorship and political self mobilisation to work for it in the state during the presidential election.

    “In this regard, Delta Obidient Elders’ Council believe that it has a duty to first of all, thank and appreciate youths of Delta and encourage them to rebuild the patriotic zeal which they displayed on Feb. 25, 2023.”

    Biose assured that the elders’ council would continue to support the youths, while blaming the LP national leadership for abandoning the youths and engaging in intra party power struggle.

    He regretted that the party failed to harness the political energy generated by the youths during the presidential election.
    He congratulating Oborevwori on his administration’s efforts in providing quality physical infrastructure and his recent birthday anniversary celebration.

    According to Obidient Elder, the litmus test of democratic governance were credible elections, while rigged election is worse than a military coup.

    “In this regard, the Delta State LG polls scheduled to hold on July 13, presents the most significant test of the credibility of Gov. Oborevwori’s administration.

    “We sincerely appeal to the Delta Political class to shun violence and fraud at the forthcoming LG election.

    “The younger generation are watching; if political leaders continue to sow seeds of violence and fraud by their actions during elections, it will be impossible to build a sane society or a great nation from such a sordid foundation.

    “That history and posterity may remember Your Excellency, Gov. Oborevwori for good; we urge you to ensure free, and fair LG elections on July 13,” he said.

    He, however, lamented the present hardship in the country, adding that Obidients were irrevocably committed to the building of a new Nigeria.

    The chairman, while appreciating the roles played by the media and youths, urged them not to relent in their commitment towards ensuring free, fair and credible elections in the country.

    Also, Chief Solomon Akeni, Proterm Secretary of the Council, said that to ensure free, fair and credible at the local government levels, it would require the amendment of the relevant laws to grant autonomy to the third tier of government.

    According to him, it is only when the Independent National Electoral Commission  (INEC) takes charge of the LG elections, that it will be free from the clutches of the governors.

    On her part, Dr Lizy Onyemah, a member of the Council, said that outside the roles played by INEC and Judiciary in an electioneering process, citizens must change their orientation and stop collecting money from politicians during elections.

    Onyemah said that accepting money during elections meant that citizens had already sold their future.

    “So, to enable free, fair and credible elections, citizens have a great role to play by not accepting any form of inducement from politicians.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    IO/OJI/EMAF
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    Edited by Maureen Ojinaka and Emmanuel Afonne

  • Oborevwori tasks youths on skills acquisition  

     

    Oborevwori task youths on  skills acquisition
    Skills
    By Ifeanyi Olannye
    Asaba, June 28, 2024(NAN) Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta on Friday, charged youths in the country to acquire skills and financial literacy to become self-employed.
    The governor gave the charge at the Niger Delta Viewpoint Small Medium Enterprises (NDVP-SME) Conference 2024 in Asaba, Delta.
    The  theme of the conference is:  “Financial Literacy and Skill Acquisition, A Journey To Self Actualisation”.
    Oborevwori, represented by his Chief of Staff, Prince Johnson Erijo, said acquisition of skills in various fields was a sure avenue for self development and empowerment.
    He called on young people to learn from and emulate successful entrepreneurs by starting businesses of their choice.
    “The training of our youths and women in self actualising knowledge and skills to make them economically independent, is a  welcome development.
    “The time has come to wean our people, especially the youths, from  depending soley  on government for the provision of all human capital development mechanism,”he said.
    He said that  government alone cannot employ everybody.
    “It has  become necessary to train our people in various areas where they can become entrepreneurs, grow their businesses and become employers of labour.
    “I am happy this programme will train our people in financial literacy.
    “This way, Small and Medium Entrepreneurs can find their way in independently negotiating and accessing funds to grow their businesses,” he said.
    He said the state government has trained thousands of youths, male and  female in skills acquisition in various fields.
    The governor said that they have also been  empowered to start their chosen businesses on their own.
    “We sincerely believe that the State has created a sizeable pool of entrepreneurs capable of revolutionising SMEs in the State.
    “It is noteworthy that this initiative covers catering, fashion, IT, both soft and hardware, farming, manufacturing and the creative industry.
    “These array of skills acquisition is capable of making participants economically self reliant.
    “I urge all participants to pay serious attention and be well equipped in the knowledge of whatever area they have chosen.
    “I implore the organisers to lay emphasis on mentoring. Some graduates of skill acquisition often branch off from what they have learnt,”he said.
    Earlier, the Founder and Group Managing Director,  Kudimata Nigeria Limited, Mrs Kathleen Erhimu, said after working  in the financial sector, it became imperative to work for herself while creating value for others.
    She said it provided empowerment, training and development to individuals and small-scale businesses in the interest of economic growth.
    The Lead Speaker and Founder, House of Tara, Mrs Tara Fela-Durotoye, Harped on the importance of relationship, reputation and resilience in the business world.
    On his part, Mudiaga Enajemo, of Mudi Africa, said he built his brand for over 30 years with talent and self-confidence.
    He urged Nigerian youths to build on their talent by undergoing requisite training needed to grow their businesses.
    Frank Onosigho, a lawyer who spoke on legal basics for entrepreneurs, said businesses must be registered through the Corporate Affairs Commission CAC.
    He also said that business  should be  built on  trust and relationships for excellence and sustainability in business.
    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Kudimata in conjunction with Prudential Energy, presented N500,000 cheques to each of the 50 beneficiaries to start up their own businesses.(NAN) (www.nannews.com.ng).
    IO/JPE
    ======
    Edited by Joseph Edeh

  • Delta reiterates demolition exercise is not witch-hunt

     

    Delta Taskforce on Recovery of Government Lands on Friday demolishing buildings illegally erected on State Government land at Dennis Osadebay University, Anwai, Asaba

     

    Delta Taskforce on Recovery of Government Lands on Friday demolishing buildings illegally erected on State Government land at Dennis Osadebay University, Anwai, Asaba

     

     

     

    Demolition

     

    By Ifeanyi Olannye

     

    Asaba, June 21, 2024 (NAN) Delta Government has reiterated that its land recovery mission was not to witch-hunt anyone but to do the right thing by putting the record straight.

     

    The Chairman of the Delta Taskforce on Recovery of Government Lands, Chief Frank Omare, said this during Friday’s demolition exercise of illegal buildings at Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba.

     

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta had given a matching order to a constituted task force to recover illegally acquired government lands across the state.

     

    Deploying three “Swamp Buggies” bulldozers to the site, Omare said the one-month-old land recovery exercise would be done in all 25 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state.

     

    According to Omare, the lands were gazetted many years ago by the government, but land grabbers stepped in and sold them to unsuspecting individuals without approved documents.

     

    He, however, challenged aggrieved victims to come up with valid titled documents on the lands acquired.

     

    He said the government would not pay compensations for illegally erected buildings, adding that its actions in Asaba would serve to warn other illegal occupiers across the state.

     

    He said the people were adequately sensitised and warned ahead of the demolition exercise but remained adamant until they saw the bulldozers approaching them.

     

    Omare said, “This demolition exercise is a continuation of the task force assignment in the state.

     

    “We are still in Asaba axis; we are coming to Ibusa, Agbor, Kwale, Warri, indeed across the 25 LGAs of the state.

     

    “It is a process and our governor is determined to recover all the lands to the government.

     

    “How can we pay compensation; the victims ought to pay for the equipment the government is hiring for the demolition.

     

    “We are looking for the land grabbers who sold the lands and misinformed the less privileged, putting the people in this present suffering.”

     

    Omare said the land had been gazetted since the administration of Capt. Ibrahim Kefa and upheld by subsequent administrations of Chief James Ibori, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa and now, Oborevwori.

     

    “Government cannot fold its hand; it is not about Gov. Oborevwori or to witch-hunt anybody; it is about government policies,” he said.

     

    He advised the people to obtain reasonable information from appropriate government agencies, adding that they should promptly remove their valuables if their acquired or rented property was on government land.

     

    Omare dismissed claims by some of the affected landlords that the government had assured them regularisation of the land titles after they were served quit notices.

     

    NAN reports that over 30 buildings including warehouses were demolished at Camp 74, the landed area mapped out and gazetted for Dennis Osadebay University.

     

    Speaking to NAN, some victims said the government should have given enough notice to enable them to relocate and evacuate their wares.

     

    Others said although they were served quit notices, they had a meeting with the government and were assured their landed properties would be regularised by giving them ownership titles.

     

    The impacted residents of the area were seen lamenting and making concerted efforts to salvage some of their belongings. (NAN) (www.nannews.com.ng).

     

    IO/MAS

     

    Edited by Moses Solanke

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  • Oborevwori lauds army professionalism, withdrawal from Okuama community

    Army

     

    By Ifeanyi Olannye

     

    Asaba, June 13, 2024 (NAN) Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta on Thursday lauded the Nigerian Army (NA) for its professionalism, especially in handling the incident of the killing of soldiers at Okuama Community.

     

    Oborevwori made the commendation at the visit of the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 6 Division of the NA, Port Harcourt, Maj.-Gen. Jamal Abdulsalam, to him in Asaba.

     

    He said the state government would sustain the partnership between it, the military and other security agencies for effective security and socio-economic development of Delta.

     

    Approving the construction of internal roads at the 6 Brigade Headquarters, Asaba, the governor added that the army had played significant roles in securing the country.

     

    “It is not in our character to take somebody’s life, not to talk of security officers. Once again, we commiserate with the NA and the families of the slain officers.

     

    “As a government, we will continue to collaborate with the NA for effective security in line with our M.O.R.E Agenda, which is to enhance peace and security.

     

    “The army has played a very big role. We are lucky as a state to have three different battalions – 3, 90 and 181 Battalions, and even a Brigade.

     

    “I remember in those days when we were under the 4 Brigade in Benin, which was under 2 Division in Ibadan, so, I know the formation as at that time. Now, we have our own close to us in Rivers State here.

     

    “I have promised Deltans to ensure that they have peace and with the army and other security agencies, there is no way we cannot have peace.

     

    “As an oil-producing state, the pipelines have to be secured. This will encourage investors,” he said.

     

    Oborevwori said the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) of the 56.35 hectares of land, given to the Amphibian Battalion by registered trustees of Iweroko and Ameren in Koko, was ready.

     

    According to him, the cost of the C of O, made up of N598 million for assessment and N14 million for ground rent, was too huge for the army, hence the state government gave a waiver.

     

    “I mandated the Commissioner for Lands to make sure the C of O was ready. So, you are going home with it today,” he said.

     

    Earlier, the GOC said he was in the state to thank the state government for all the support and cooperation the NA had received over the years.

     

    Abdulsalam appreciated the governor and the trustees of the Iweroko and Ameren for the parcel of land, meant for the construction of an army barrack.

     

    He also lauded Oborevwori for his deft diplomacy, strategic role and cooperation in resolving the Okuama incident.

     

    He assured that the NA would continue to discharge its responsibilities of ensuring effective security in the state and across the Niger Delta with utmost professionalism.

     

    Abdulsalam solicited the state government’s support in constructing internal roads and building more structures at the barracks in Asaba and Koko. (NAN) (www.nannews.com.ng).

     

    IO/MAS

     

    Edited by Moses Solanke

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  • Oborevwori felicitates Okonjo-Iweala at 70 

     

    Oborevwori felicitates Okonjo-Iweala at 70
    Felicitation
    By Ifeanyi Olannye
    Asaba, June 13, 2024 (NAN) Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta has congratulated the Director-General of World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, as she clocks 70.
    The governor’s felicitation is contained  in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Festus Ahon, on Thursday, in Asaba.
    He described Okonjo-Iweala as a distinguished daughter of Delta from Ogwashi-Uku, praising her for being the first African woman to lead the global trade organisation.
    Oborevwori said that she was a shining example of professionalism and integrity, and a great role model for women.
    He commended the WTO Director-General for her sublime and remarkable achievements in support of Nigeria and the international financial sector.
    Oborevwori remarked that Okonjo-Iweala made laudable  contributions to the development of Nigeria’s economy, as a two-time Finance Minister.
    He extolled Okonjo-Iweala for her intellect and skill as a leading economist and specialist in international development, whose faultless work over the years had won her praise from all over the world.
    “As a state, we take great pride in your impressive achievements, which have earned you numerous accolades and recognition over the years.
    “Your innovative contributions as Finance Minister under Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan are particularly noteworthy.
    “On behalf of my family, the Delta State government, and our people, I extend warm congratulations to you, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, on your 70th birth anniversary.
    “I join your family, colleagues, and well-wishers in expressing gratitude to God for your remarkable life, filled with outstanding accomplishments and fulfillment.
    “As you celebrate three scores and ten, I pray that God grants you continued good health, happiness, and many more years of impactful contributions to the global economy.”(NAN)(www.nannews.com.ng).
    IO/SOA
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    Edited by Oluwole Sogunle

  • Democracy Day: Oborevwori expresses optimism for better Nigeria

    Democracy Day: Oborevwori expresses optimism for better Nigeria

    Felicitation

    By Ifeanyi Olannye

    Asaba, June 12, 2024(NAN) Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta has expressed optimism about the growth and eventual flourish of Nigeria’s democracy.

    The governor, who said this in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, on Wednesday in Asaba, also congratulated the people of Delta and Nigerians on this year’s Democracy Day.

    He advised on enhancement in the electoral laws, and had encouraged the citizens to leverage on the reforms to elect leaders inclined to promote good governance and the well-being of the nation.

    “I extend warm congratulations to all Nigerians, especially the people of Delta State and its residents, as we commemorate Democracy Day and mark the first anniversary of this administration.

    “Over the past 25 years, we have embarked on an uninterrupted democratic voyage.

    “While we have faced challenges as a nation, my administration acknowledges and empathizes with the difficulties our citizens are currently enduring.

    “Nevertheless, amidst adversity, there is always hope. Let us remain optimistic that our future will be brighter than our present,” he said.

    The governor expressed gratitude to God that  “since 1999, Nigeria has experienced a continuous period of democratic governance, allowing citizens to freely choose their leaders and enjoy the benefits of good governance for the past 25 years.

    ” This is marking a significant milestone in our nation’s history.

    “Building on the progress made by previous administrations, our government is committed to further enhancing the infrastructure and human capital of our state.”

    According to him, this is as outlined in our M.O.R.E Agenda, ensuring continued growth and development for the benefit of all citizens.

    “I encourage all citizens of Delta state and Nigeria to remain optimistic and steadfast, as our nation will overcome its current challenges through collective efforts, prayers, cooperation, and a shared vision among leaders and the led, leading to a brighter future for all.

    “May God’s blessings continue to shine upon our dear state and nation as we progress on our path of democratic growth and development.

    “I wish all Nigerians a joyous Democracy Day celebration,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.com.ng).

    IO/IAA

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    Edited by Isaac Aregbesola

  • FG urges investment in gas sector to create jobs, boost energy supply

     

    FG urges investment in gas sector to create jobs, boost energy supply

    Investment
    By Ifeanyi Olannye
    Kwale (Delta), June 6, 2024(NAN) The Federal Government  said that  increased investments in the gas sector would create employment, boost energy supply and grow Nigeria’s economy.
    The Minster of State for Petroleum Resources -Gas, Ekperikpe Ekpo, stated this while inaugurating Nedogas Development Company Limited (NDCL) and its 300mmscfd Kwale Gas Gathering (KGG) facility on Thursday in Kwale, Delta.
    He said that President Bola Tinubu had directed  them to enforce the growth of investment in oil and gas sector, to ensure availability of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) for domestic consumption and  export.
    Ekpo lauded the management of Nedogas limited for the initiative to invest in gas gathering to reposition the economy.
    He said  that theb
     company would provide energy sufficiency, economic expansion, direct and indirect employment in the country, particularly in the immediate community.
    The minister urged  investors to venture into gas gathering to stop gas flaring, adding that with concerted efforts,  gas resources could be utilised to achieve economic development of the country.
    “We are gathered here in Kwale, Delta to commemorate the official commissioning of the Kwale Gas Gathering (KGG) Facility and the Nedogas Plant.
    “These initiatives are a result of a strategic collaboration between Nedogas Limited and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).
    “It represents a significant advancement in the country’s efforts to promote sustainability, energy efficiency, and economic expansion.
    ” The occasion today marks not just a turning point for Delta , but also a major turning point in Nigeria’s continuous quest to use its abundant natural gas resources for the country’s development,” he said.
    According to the minister, Nedogas plant is part of the larger plan to lower greenhouse gas emissions, and encourage sustainable practices in the oil and gas sector.
    “It emphasises how dedicated the federal government is to increasing gas usage, broadening our energy sources and lessening our influence on the environment.
    “We will be able to process natural gas more efficiently at the Nedogas Plant, which will increase both our domestic supply and export potential.
    “This establishment promises to significantly boost our economy by generating jobs, fostering industrial expansion and ensuring energy security. It is a symbol of advancement”.
    In his goodwill message, Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta,  represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, lauded the management of Nedogas limited and  its partners for the investment.
    “One can feel the pains of every Nigerian when it comes to the issue of energy  availability and affordability.
    “Even more worrisome is the World Bank report that due to poor power supply in the country, businesses spend about $29 billion yearly on power.
    ” It is also  quite unfortunate that the country is  ranked as the lowest in terms of access to electricity globally,”he said.
    Oborevwori said that the projects would no  doubt benefit Nigerians, particularly the people of Delta in many ways.
    According to him, Nigeria boasts of a reserve base of 208.83 trillion cubic feet of gas which represents 33 per cent of Africa’s total gas reserves.
    “This places Nigeria as the ninth among countries with high concentration of natural gas in the world.
    “With these projects, the energy needs of Nigerians will get a boost,especially in the critical area of supply.
    “It is heartwarming too that this facility will have gas supplied to it by other oil companies  operating in this area, which will greatly reduce the effects of gas flaring on our people.
    “We are all aware that the level of gas flaring is very high in this part of the world, in spite its  acknowledged adverse effects on the climate,”he said.
    Also speaking, the Chairman, Nedogas Limited, Emeka Ene  thanked the government, strategic partners and the community for  providing the needed support and enabling environment to achieve the project.
    “The KGG Facility with its impressive capacity of 300 million standard cubic feets per day (mmscfd) is a testament to what can be achieved when innovation, determination and strategic partnerships converge.
    “No doubt, these projects will lead to the creation of a lot of direct and indirect job opportunities too, thereby, boosting the economy of our state.
    “I call for the replication of this project in other parts of our state where gas flaring is taking place to reduce its effects on our people.
    “I also urge Nedogas Limited and its partner, the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) to enhance the use of local contents,”he said.
    He urged the company to meet up with its social responsibilities and above all, ensure conducive and peaceful relationship with the host communities.
    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that other strategic partners of the company pledged their continued support to enhance sustainability, growth and development of the sector.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    IO/JPE
    =====
    Edited by Joseph Edeh

  • Oborevwori approves land, C of O for NAF at Osubi

    Oborevwori approves land, C of O for NAF at Osubi
    Land
    By Ifeanyi Olannye
    Asaba, June 5, 2024(NAN) Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori  of Delta has approved a 66.6 hectares of land with a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) for the Nigeria Air Force barrack at Osubi, Okpe Local Government Area of the state.
    The governor disclosed this when the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, paid him  a courtesy visit on Wednesday in Asaba.

    “To collaborate with the Nigerian Airforce, we have provided 66.6 hectares of land in Osubi, and the C of O was issued in January this year.

    “We are all aware that it was initially granted by the previous administration but there was no C of O.

    “It was supposed to be an operational base at that time. We know the project is still there; we will also assist in the construction of roads that will lead to the 66.6 hectares of land,”he said.

    He said that the gesture was in line with his administration M.O.R.E Agenda to enhance peace and security in the state.

    ” This is because that’s the only way we can get development. I want to tell you here that but for the sad Okuama 17 very sad incident, we were already enjoying peace in Delta.

    “We condemn the unfortunate incident in totality and we know that the Okuama 17 will not go in vain.

    “We are also doing our best; we have already set up an IDP camp for the innocent citizens.

    “I want to assure you that, regarding your request for land for your housing scheme, we will make sure that you get the land as soon as possible.

    “Now that you have the spirit to build a housing scheme for your personnel, we have to get the land ready immediately,” he said.

    The governor also assured that the state would continue to partner the NAF and other security agencies in state in order to continue to enjoy peace.

    He said that peace and security was the way sustainable development could be achieved in the state.
    Earlier, Abubakar lauded the governor for the support the state government has provided to the Air Force over the years in the state.
    While receiving the C of O from the governor, Abubakar also thanked Oborevwori for gifting the Force land to fully entrench itself in the state.
    He said he was in the state to oversight the operational responsibilities of the Air Force in Warri.
    Abubakar  thanked  Oborevwori for all the support and cooperation the Air Force had received from the state    Government over the years.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng).
    IO/JPE
    =====
    Edited by Joseph Edeh

  • End post-election litigations in Nigeria – Jonathan charges INEC, judiciary

    Former President, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, cutting the tape on Tuesday, at the inauguration of Delta State High Court complex in Asaba
    Litigations
    By Ifeanyi Olannye
    Asaba, June 4, 2024 (NAN) Former President, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, has charged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Nigeria Judiciary to end the avalanche of post- elections litigations in Nigeria.
    Jonathan gave the charge while inaugurating the multi-million naira State High Court edifice equipped with modern facilities and 24 hours power supply.
    The project was completed by the Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori government.
    The former president also flagged off the presentation of 20 Toyota Prado Sport Utility Vehicles, SUVs, to judges in the state.
    He said that the project was the third he had inaugurated in the state and had lauded Oborevwori for continuing and completing his predecessors initiated projects and programmes.
    Jonathan, however, said that it was good to give and equip the judiciary with the best edifice and to give them the needed comfort because Nigerians also expected the best from them.
    “I am glad to join the governor to commission this major project, this is the third project I have commissioned in Delta.
    “I commissioned  the state government house when I was in office and the Federal High Court Complex, so governor, thank you for inviting me to be part of this unique ceremony.
    The former president said that completing past administration’s projects would aid growth and development of the state.
    “We expect anybody who takes over to continue with the development pace and you are doing that,” Jonathan said.
    He said that the history of the high court building project began since 1991, adding that it was on record that with commitment, the governor was able to complete the project and inaugurate it.
    Jonathan said that with the inauguration of the edifice, it was a day to celebrate the judiciary.
    He said that the governor had promised to do more for the judiciary, but as the governor rightly said that “this is an edifice of justice, Nigerians are expecting the best of  the judiciary officers”.
    ” I just returned from South Africa on Monday, June 2, because I was there to observe their election that held on Wednesday, May 29.
    “One Nigeria journalists interviewed me and asked, What are the South Africans doing regarding their elections that we Nigerians can emulate or what Nigerians are doing that they can emulate?
    “I told him that one key difference between South African and Nigeria is that if a South African loses an election, and he goes to court, it is very strange.
    “But if a  Nigerian loses election  and does not go to court. It is very strange.
    “In Nigeria, my thinking is that 50 per cent of those who go to court, do so because they felt they where cheated by the electoral management system and were rigged out.
    “So, assuming the elections are properly conducted, that set of people will not go to court.
    “The next 50 per cent that go to court are those who know they failed election but they feel they can use the judiciary to declare them winners.
    “So, if the judiciary do not declare those who did not win elections winners, that remaining 50 per cent will also not go to court,” he said.
    Jonathan said that unlike in Nigeria, in South Africa, the electoral management body would never compromise and they all know.
    “So,  if you lose election, you just have to wait for the next election. You don’t need to go to court.
    “And if you go to court in South Africa, the judiciary will not compromise. So nobody goes to court but I believe we will get there one day in Nigeria
    ” So, the judiciary should  be very strong and do the right thing so that this avalanche of litigation  after elections will stop in this country,” Jonathan said.
    While congratulating the governor, government and the judiciary of Delta, he urged the governor to continue on that trajectory to manage the state resources judiciously.
    Gov. Oborevwori in his speech, lauded the past governors for initiating, awarding the contracts and for their commitment that enabled the completion of the high court project which began about 25 years.
    He said that completion of the building was in line with his commitment to the completion of projects inherited from previous administrations.

    Oborevwori said he was motivated to complete the project because the judiciary was the only arm of government without a befitting building for their operations.

    He said the presentation of 20 Toyota Prado SUVs to judges in the state was a fulfillment of “a promise made and a promise kept”.

    While thanking the former President for coming to inaugurate the project, he said the erstwhile President remained a great Nigerian patriot, statesman and unique leader, in and out of office.

    “On behalf of the government and good people of Delta State, I thank you for your friendship, partnership, and sustained interest in the progress of our dear state and Nigeria in general,”.

    The Commissioner for Housing, Mr. Godknows Angele, said the building consisted of five floors, six court rooms, six conference halls, six witness waiting rooms.

    It also has six holding cells, six Secretarial offices, two general conference halls, a ceremonial hall, Multi-purpose Hall, lawyers’ lounge, judges’ lounge, VIP lounge and a library, among others.

    In his remarks, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, represented by the Presiding Judge of the Court of Appeal, Asaba Division,  Justice Bolaji Yusuf, lauded the state government for providing the magnificent edifice as a temple of justice in the state.

    He expressed optimism that other states would emulate the Delta State example by providing similar magnificent temples of justice for the administration of justice in other parts of the country.

    Also, in her remarks, Chief Judge of Delta State, Justice Theresa Diai, thanked Gov Oborevwori and his predecessors for the completion of the modern edifice.

    She describing it as a “magnificent testament” and enduring commitment to the pursuit of justice and excellence in the judiciary.
    The Chief Judge said the new High Court Complex had internet access and other critical Information Technology (IT) facilities in the building to enhance e-filing of court processes and e-payments for services rendered by the High Court of Justice.(NAN)(www.nannews.com.ng)
    IO/MNA
    Edited by Maureen Atuonwu
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  • Association gets taskforce to check irregularities in oil sector

    Taskforce
    By Ifeanyi Olannye
    Asaba, June 4, 2024(NAN) The Association of Nigeria Refineries Petroleum Marketers (ANRPM), on Monday inaugurated a taskforce to stamp out oil bunkering, adulteration of products, artificial scarcity and other illegalities in the sector.
    The News Agency of Nigeria(NAN), reports that the Chief Host and Delta Coordinator, ANRPM, Dr Edison Nwadiaro, inaugurated the chairmen and coordinators for Imo, Bayelsa, Rivers and Enugu States in Asaba, Delta.
    Nwadiaro said that the association had a mandate to flush out all forms of illegalities in the petroleum sector in the Niger Delta region.
    “Today, we are inaugurating a taskforce on bunkering, adulteration of petroleum products, dubious middlemen, artificial scarcity and all forms of illegalities in the sector.
    “We have Chairmen in the nine states of the Niger Delta who will carry out this mandate in their respective states. We also have local government coordinators.
    “We say no to the dubious middlemen in the oil sector, no to artificial scarcity which is usually caused by activities of middlemen, no to adulteration of petroleum products, no to bunkering and all forms of illegalities in the oil sector.
    “We are trying to put a stop to these illegalities in the oil sector.
    “We are a federal taskforce and we have legal backing. We will work with security agencies to ensure smooth operation.
    “The association intends to identify those involved in bunkering and bring them under an association where they could approach the Federal Government to grant them amnesty.
    “Just like what the Federal Government did in the past, they will be granted amnesty that will enable them stop bunkering in the Niger Delta region and our oil facilities will be secured and production increased,” he said.
    He charged the taskforce to up their game and carry out their mandate diligently in their respective states.
    He said that members of the taskforce would be trained so as to be equipped with the requisite knowledge to execute their tasks.(NAN)(www.nannews.com.ng).
    IO/ETS
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