Unclaimed $45m: We Need to Examine Wike's Mental Status — Peterside

Nyesom Wike, Rivers State Governor

An All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwart in Rivers State, Dr Dakuku Peterside has questioned the mental status of Governor Nyesom Wike after claiming that the $45m found at a residence in Ikoyi, Lagos State belong to Rivers State Government.

Dr Peterside, who stated this in a chat with newsmen at the Port Harcourt International Airport, rubbished insinuations by Governor Wike that the money found in Lagos were part of proceeds Rivers State Government realised from sale of gas turbines by the Amaechi administration.

Wike was also quoted to have claimed that the house in question belongs to Amaechi, who has since issued a statement denying ownership of the said building.

He accused the Rivers State governor of turning governance to a circus show and lacking in sense of dignity by constantly being in the news for all the wrong reasons.

"Not too long ago, Wike apparently suffering from overdose of self delusion said he had awarded road projects in far away Benue State and had mobilised contractors to site.

"The same Wike has also accused the Inspector General of Police of plotting to assassinate him through the new CP in Rivers State.

"We thought these were jokes taken too far. But the clownish governor has surprised himself with another tales by moonlight in trying to link his former boss and benefactor to the unclaimed money.

"I think we need to check the sanity  and mental status of Governor Wike. Time and time again, he is bringing ridicule to the office he occupies and embarrassing the people of Rivers State who are known to be intelligent, responsible and decent in upbringing," he stressed.

He explained that Amaechi had since denied owning the said house in Lagos and challenged the Rivers State Government to provide evidence to the contrary.

Peterside, who was commissioner for works under Amaechi, noted that the money realised from sale of gas turbines were paid into the account of Rivers state and the money used for projects. 

"While Wike can never come near the record of Amaechi, the current governor is doing everything to reverse the unmatchable records of his predecessor. 

“As at today, no one has seen copies of 2016 and 2017 budgets of Rivers State. Schools and health centres are shutting down with thousands of school age children out of school. Rivers children on scholarship abroad have been withdrawn. The same governor has wasted Rivers money to host two failed conventions of a sinking PDP. His party chairman has accused him of using $6m to influence judicial officers.

"Wike has the unenviable record of governing a state having the most state-linked killings in Rivers history. He rose to become the governor of Rivers State on the bloods of innocent people.

"It is people like Wike who have made Nigerians to call to question the issue of immunity in the Constitution. He is taking immunity as shield to abuse the dignity of the office of Governor.

"The governor can still retrace his steps and follow the path of dignity, decorum and respect the office he occupies for he holds it in trust on behalf of Rivers people," he summed up.

Press Release: Depression Rates Peak In Older Age– Older Men And Women Are Taking Action To Raise Awareness In Lagos, Ogun And Zamfara State In Nigeria

Older campaigners mobilise on World Health Day (7 April) to raise awareness of depression in older age.

Age Demands Action’s older campaigners in Ilara, Odonoforija in Eredo Local Council Development Area, Ogeere and its immediate communities in Ogun State and Zamfara in Northern  Nigeria will join thousands of people from more than 40 countries on World Health Day to make sure the voices of older people are heard and to encourage them to talk about depression.

ADA is a global platform for older people to campaign on the issues that matter to them. Each year on World Health Day hundreds of older people take action to raise awareness about health issues affecting them and how governments can make changes.

There will be Conscious Raising Summit for the Older people with the topic Depression in Older Age, Free Medical Treatment, dancing, football novelty match, indoor-games competitions. It is a one week activities that will take place in Lagos and Ogun State in Nigeria. Older campaigners will pay a courtesy visit to the Sole Administrator Eredo Local Government in Eredo Epe Lagos State. Hon Okesanya Muyiwa and the Executive Governor of Lagos State Mr Akinwunmi Ambode. The Older Campaigners will present the fact sheet on Depression to the government officials and demand for free medical treatment for Older people in Eredo LCDA and Lagos State generally.

“ We are happy for the government efforts in providing more Primary Health Centers and improving on the existing ones in the state we want to use this campaign to appeal to the government to provide free medical surgeries on cataracts for the older people in Lagos State”, said Mrs. Tomiwa. Another Older campaigner Pastor Okewande said “ We will also ask the Sole Administrator (Chairman) of Eredo Local government who has been making life worth living for us the older people by bringing development to our communities within his short stay in the office to facilitate building of  recreation parks for older people within the communities in his Local Council Development Area. This will help combat depression in older people in the area”. He concluded.

Globally, an estimated 350 million people of all ages suffer from depression, and 7% of older people are affected.

Multiple social, psychological and biological factors determine a person’s mental health. But the circumstances older people face mean they are more likely to experience isolation, loss of independence and loneliness. They may, for example, face bereavement due to the loss of a loved one, or a drop in socioeconomic status and income with retirement. These factors can contribute to depression.

“Depression is an important public health problem and its devastating in old age.15 % of older people in Nigeria suffers from depression. It is associated with an increased risk of morbidity and decreased physical, cognitive and social activities. Depression affect people differently .At worse it can lead to suicide. A number of lifestyles changes can help people manage the symptoms which include exercise, diet, St John Wort and spirituality,” said Dr Tosin Hassan, Medical Adviser at Age Nigeria Foundation.

 “There are plenty of actions governments can take to tackle depression in older age. They can ensure access to treatment and support such as counselling, address income insecurity through pensions, and facilitate Older People’s inclusion in society”. Age Nigeria foundation, a non- governmental organisation that advocates for the welfare and right of Older People in Nigeria has different projects and initiatives which are helping the Older People contribute to their immediate communities in different parts of Nigeria. With the establishment of Centers For Creative Ageing and Research ( CEFCARE) in Lagos and Ogun State. The centers  serve as recreational and developmental base where Older People come together in the community where they are established to advocate for their rights, interact ,exchange ideas, play games and exercise to keep fit and healthy, share life experience with their peers and embark on self help projects that will empower them in the society . The centers are designed to help them fight loneliness and depression through resilient building with several initiatives and self help projects initiated by the centers to encourage older people participation in the development of their communities and stay active. CEFCARE main objective is to create age friendly environment in Nigeria.

Older people in Ilara and Odonoforija in Eredo-Epe Local Council Development Area of Lagos State and Ogeere and its immediate communities in Ogun State Nigeria are uniting with thousands of others worldwide as part of the HelpAge International’s Age Demands Action campaign.

Older men and women are marching, meeting with Ministers of Health and hosting poetry events in their countries to raise awareness of depression and other health issues affecting older people.

“It is important older men and women know that mental health and emotional wellbeing are as important in older age as at any other time of life,” said Kate Wedgwood, Director of 

Network, Advocacy, Communications and Campaigns at HelpAge International.

“Building on the momentum to tackle ageism by campaigners last year, we are encouraging older people to challenge ageism within the health sector too. This is crucial in ensuring increased access to health services for older people, including treatment for depression.” 

Press Release: Rivers Councillors Forum

RE: DEFECTION OF RIVERS APC COUNCILLORS TO THE PDP. 

The attention of the Rivers APC Councillors Forum of the 8th Legislative Assembly, elected 2015 under the immediate past administration of His Excellency former governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi has been drawn to an announcement on Rythm 93. 7 Fm 7.am news, a private radio station in Port Harcourt, insinuating that over 200 of our Honourable members across the state have defected or are on the verge of defection from the APC to the PDP. 

The statement also alleged that some of our elected councillors have concluded plans to withdraw our case against the Rivers State Government at the Port Harcourt division of the court of appeal. 

It further quoted one 'Tamunoemi Williams' in the radio voice inserts saying, he is a councillor from Bonny local government area, that he is leading 200 elected councillors to the PDP. 

It is on this note that we want to state clearly that none of our members from across the 319 wards of the state is defecting from our party APC to anywhere. None of our members have also defected. 

We also want to place on record that the Rivers APC Councillors Forum under our leadership has no plan whatsoever to seek for the withdrawal or the discontinuation of our case before the Appeal Court Port Harcourt. 

Our case in court is at advance stage and we believe justice shall be served in no distance time. Our grassroot supporters from across the state is hereby assured that we shall pursue our case to a  justifiable end. 

As a matter of fact, from records available to us at the state level of the Forum, there is no such councillor by the name "Tamunoemi Williams" on the list of our elected honorable members from Bonny LGA. 

For the avoidance of doubt, we've here list of authentic elected APC councillors with their contact information particularly from the 12 wards of Bonny LGA, as a proof that the said "Tamunoemi Williams" is an impostor. He is not on our list of membership from Bonny LGA, he is not a councillor. 

BONNY 8th LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY LIST. 

1. Hon Taribo Williams = 08161870661

2. Hon Ibiwangi Halliday = 08132395055

3. Hon Gogo Nathan = 08036723362

4. Hon Daniel Pollyn = 08033167633

5. Hon Michael Bluejack = 08134604357

6. Hon Happiness Pepple = 08068804480

7. Hon Hanson Hart = 08163756815

8. Hon Idaopu Halliday = 08188412480

9. Hon Chamberlain Brown = 08084715958

10. Hon Teimbo fresh Teimbo

11. Hon Michael Orumbie

12. Adawari Julius Jumbo

 Leader. 

On the strength of the above, it is now crystal clear that the said radio announcement has no atom of truth in it. It is mere figment of imagination of the gullible author struggling to satisfy his selfish desires . 

The Leadership of the Rivers Councillors Forum, on behalf of 319 elected honorable members will like to unequivocally denounce this baseless defection rumors making the rounds. They are all false and are handiwork of mischief makers professionally crafted to deceive our supporters and some unsuspecting members of the public, and with the aim of setting confusion in our ranks. 

Unbehalf of the 319 APC elected councillors of Rivers State, we will like to seize this opportunity to pledge our unshakable loyalty and confidence in our party APC under the able Leadership of Rt Hon Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi.

None of our councillors is defecting to nowhere. We remain steadfast and comfortable in the APC because we believe our future and destiny can be better guaranteed within the progressive family. 

Finally, we'll like to advise journalist especially Rythm 93. 7 Fm to always crosscheck there facts before rushing to publication. 

Thank you! 

Dae Stephen Deegbara. 

Chairman, Rivers Councillors Forum. 

28/03/2017.

Rachael Umahi: 45 Garlands for Humane, Amiable,Philanthropist Par Excellence & Embodiment of Selfless Services to Humanity

By Monica C. Ada Eze,

Preamble

March 23, 1972 will forever remain evergreen in the lives of Ebonyi State people, particularly to the family of Mr and Mrs Chukwu and Eunice Akpa of Umuobuna, Uburu in Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, as that was the day, God in his infinite mercy and wisdom blessed the state with the birth of a golden daughter, Chief (Mrs) Rachael Umahi, who has guided her family to become the first family in Ebonyi State at a time like this. This great lady of the moment, who celebrates her 45 years on earth this 23rd day of March 2017 attended Umuobuna/Uhuaba Community Primary School, Uburu between 1979 and 1985 from where she got her First School Leaving Certificate. She obtained her West African School Certificate (WASC) in 1999, from Immaculate Girls Secondary School, Aba, Abia State. She obtained a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in 2007, from Rivers State University of Science and Technology (RSUST), Port Harcourt, in 2002. She is credited with several post-graduation experiences in human and resource management in the private sector, before she became the wife of the executive governor of Ebonyi State.

Why this treatise?

The main aim of this treatise is to examine and present this exponent of God’s love to humanity and to congratulate her as she turns 45 years.

Thomas Woodrow Wilson, an American politician and academic who served as the 28th President of the United States, from 1913 to 1921, with Rachael Umahi in mind once stated: “There is no higher religion than human service. To work for the common good is the greatest creed.”  After a critical observation of the above quote, Mrs Umahi, wife of the Ebonyi State Governor and founder of the Family Succour & Upliftment Foundation Programme, who has through her pet project redefined philanthropy, charity and selfless service to humanity rightly came to my mind.

                

Thomas S. Monson, in his own reaction after studying Mrs Umahi’s works to humanity, have reason to state: “When faith replaces doubt, when selfless service eliminates selfish striving, the power of God brings to pass His purposes.” Rachael Umahi has through her pet project not only brought succour to the people of Ebonyi State but, most importantly, brought the purpose of God to the people of the state. A critical study of Umahi’s activities in Ebonyi State brought to the fore what the Holy Spirit tried to state in James 1:27: “Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this: To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.” (KJV)

 Succour projects

Kilroy J Oldster once stated: “Our most intense joy comes not from personal feats, but from helping other persons achieve their goals. We become suppler human beings when we find true joy in witnessing other people’s successes and unabashedly share in their joyful accomplishments.”

My auntie, Mrs Umahi, derives joy in helping the needy and to prepare formally her humanitarian services to humanity. She launched her pet project code-named Succour and Upliftment programme, aimed at uplifting the downtrodden in the state. The pet project has four thematic areas bordering on health, education, economic empowerment for women and youths, as well as women liberation.

Mrs Umahi unveiled the pet project at the Akanu Ibiam International Conference Centre, Abakaliki. And, according to her, the programme was aimed at achieving an effective and efficient primary healthcare delivery, adding that the programme would achieve 100 per cent education in the state. She said that the pet project would sustain economic empowerment and job creation for women and youths, through entrepreneurship and agriculture, to put food on the tables of their families, as well as address the problem of poverty.

“In the area of women liberation, the family succour and uplift programme intends to liberate Ebonyi women from all vices against the female folk and ensure the upliftment and enhancement of their general living status. Economic empowerment is a solution to poverty, and this informed my determination to improve upon the family income of our people through entrepreneurship and job creation for our women and youths,” she said.

Mrs Umahi said that the pet project was designed as a business outfit managed profitably to yield revenue to the state government through skills in palm oil processing and palm kernel oil extraction; shoe-making, hair-dressing, fabric weaving/weaving of cardigans, fish farm, soap-making, IT-software development and system maintenance for youth empowerment and entrepreneurship development training. 

According to this God’s gift to Ebonyi State, “In the course of my commencing the establishment of the family succour and upliftment programme, and to drive home my resolve to improve upon the socio-economic status of Ebonyi women and youths, I embarked upon advocacy visits to several agencies and organisations, including the UN Economic group led by UN women and United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), and the Society for Family Health, for their support and partnership for the successful actualisation of my programmes on effective development of Ebonyi women, youths and children. 

“I, therefore, call on well-meaning individuals, corporate organisations and other agencies for their logistics and other forms of support for the centre, to enable it realise its objectives of enhancing the socio-economic status of our women, children and youths.”

With what the statistics have shown: most of the social malaises prevalent in the society were because of poor or inadequate health-care, school drop-out syndrome, delinquency among youths, waywardness among the girl child, such as prostitution and other anti-social behaviour.

“The economic empowerment is a solution to poverty, and this informed my determination to improve upon the family income of our people through entrepreneurship and job creation for our women and youths. The major activities of the centre include training, retraining and capacity building as well as micro-credit programme of the state government, it will provide graduates of the centre with micro-credit to establish their own enterprises. Plans are underway to link the centre with other micro-credit programmes outside the ones provided by the state government, such as the Central Bank.”

She appreciated all those who contributed in various ways towards the successful actualisation of the family succour and upliftment programme, friends of Ebonyi State and all who have identified with this programme for their kind support, and assured: “We in the family succour and upliftment programme will strive to ensure that the programme achieves the desired result for the overall development of Ebonyi women, youths and children.”

Skills available through the Family Succour And Family Upliftment Programme are:
1. Tailoring (male and female) knitting make-up

2. Head-tie/hair dressing, perfume production

3. Bleach production, liquid detergent and soap, balm

4. Hair cream and powder production

5. Computer and graphics (simple artwork)

6. Tiling/interlocking

7. Confectioneries and juice production.

Reactions to the pet project

In his speech at the event, Governor Dave Umahi said that his wife knew how to give to the less-privilege, and promised to support her pet project in order to empower women and children of the state.

“I want to pledge my commitment and support to the project. My administration will not neglect the women and children’s welfare, and health-care. We will give you support, my administration will give you every support,” he promised.

The representatives of International Fund for Development (IFAD) and UNIDO, Atsuko Toda; UNICEF, Dr Nzuki; Society for Family Health, Sir Bright Ekweremadu; UN and ECOWAS, Dr Desmond Osemahia, pledged their supports for the programme.

They were optimistic that the first lady’s pet project would go a long way in alleviating the suffering of women and children, promising to partner with the wife of the governor for the period.

The international agencies, however, called on the legislature and other stakeholders to support Mrs Umahi to actualise her aim of uplifting the women and children of the state.

In another development, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) women leader, Hon Mrs Amaka Igboke, stated that the women were overwhelmed at the interventions of, Deaconess Rachel Umahi, which have given many Ebonyi women positions in this administration. Mrs Igboke said the women have never had it so good. She assured of total support to the administration of Governor Umahi. The PDP women leader said they came to thank Mrs Umahi and her husband for involving them in the scheme of things. The women handed over some gift items to the governor's wife during the event.

Feats

Through this platform, Her Excellency facilitates numerous social development programmes for Ebonyi women and children, particularly as it relates to primary health-care and welfare programmes. To further drive home her determination to improving upon the socio-economic status of Ebonyi women and children, barely two weeks upon the swearing-in of her husband as the governor, she embarked upon advocacy visits to several agencies and organisations, such as the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation UN Women, WHO, Society for Family Health, and other agencies and organisations, to garner support and partnership for the successful actualisation of her programmes on effective development of Ebonyi women and children.

She donated agricultural support materials, such as fertilisers and herbicides and other farming input to widows and youths of the state, through the support of IFAD project on the day of the launching of her pet project. 

She has used her pet project to positively affect and influence lives in the state, through the paying of medical bills of indigent patients, mobilsiation of women towards better family, as well as partnering with USAID/PMI and the Ministry of Health, in sustaining support towards the elimination of malaria and assisting those suffering from VVF in the state.

This United States government crowned net ambassador has continued with advocacy and mobilisation of people towards the fight against malaria. She expressed delight that many people now sleep inside the insecticidal treated bed nets.

Besides, that 18 agro-based cooperative societies were empowered with N1 million each, to enable them enhance agricultural activities through the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).The 18 cooperative societies were drawn from six local government areas, namely: Abakaliki, Izzi, Ikwo, Ezza South, Afikpo South and Ishielu.

Speaking while handing over cheques to beneficiaries, Mrs Umahi commended the idea of empowering the people, particularly women through the agro grant. Mrs Umahi charged the benefitting cooperative societies to make judicious use of the funds.

The governor’s wife, who was the chief guest of honour, promised to use her office and her pet project – the Family Succour and Upliftment Foundation – to better the lots of humanity. Chairman of the event and senator representing Ebonyi North, Dr Sam Egwu, commended the wife of Ebonyi State Governor, Mrs Umahi, the Family Succour and Upliftment Foundation and SDG for working together to empower Ebonyi people.

In a welcome address, the focal person, SDG Dr Ngozi Obichukwu, highlighted reasons for the grant and told the cooperative societies that they will be closely monitored. She thanked Mrs Umahi and Egwu for their support.

Her Excellency, Chief Rachel Umahi, in another development at Mile Four Hospital, Abakaliki, put smiles on some faces, as she off-set the hospital bills of indigent mothers who delivered at the hospital but could not pay their bills. Deaconess Umahi who went straight from a church service, said the “Holy Spirit led in her heart to visit Mile Four Hospital and free those mothers.” It was a big relief to these families as some shade tears of joy.                                                                            

Building 172 houses for widows

Under this strategy, at least 172 widows and non-indigenes in Ebonyi State are to receive two-bedroom bungalow each, as succour to alleviate their sufferings. Mrs Umahi who disclosed this during the foundation- laying of two of the buildings at Uburu in Ohaozara and Amike-Aba councils noted that the beneficiaries were carefully selected from each of the state’s 171 wards, adding that the project is part of the programmes of her pet project, Family Succour and Upliftment Programme. She stated that apart from the fight against female genital mutilation, her office had to embark on the provision of accommodation for the indigent widows, because they were often victims of harmful traditional practices.

She promised to fight until all harmful practices against women were stopped and urged women to stand against such practices that are inimical to their welfare, and participate in politics to lend constructive voices in the issues of governance and welfare of the families.

She explained that society would be better for all if the women are encouraged and consulted in the evolution of policies that concern them and their children. Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Mr Samuel Okoronkwo who led the state executive council members, said the government was interested in the projects because of their impact on the lives of those who could ordinarily be forgotten, noting that the major essence of a woman is to be a helper, even in schemes of governance.

International recognition

The International Committee and Advisory Board of McKing’s Media Productions (Publisher of TREK Magazine) officially announced in her 2016 Edition of the Annual Prestigious ‘Trek Africa Awards’ (TAWA) on Sunday September 18, 2016 recognised and appreciated Mrs Umahi,  wife of the governor of Ebonyi State, for her humanitarian services in Ebonyi State.

TREK Africa Awards is a continental showpiece geared at acknowledging and celebrating personalities who have excelled in different spheres and made their lifestyles exemplary for the younger generation to emulate. It's maiden edition in 2014 assembled creme de la crèmes of Nigeria and Ghana with over 600 high profile male and female personalities which cut across various spheres, including politics, banking, industries, judiciary, media, entertainment, pageantry, to name a few.

According to the Publisher of TREK Magazine, Mr Oki Samson Olatunji, the initiative of TAWA is to acknowledge and celebrate Africa’s exemplary personalities with great impact and resilient spirit, who have reached into the slums and hinterlands to break the stronghold of ignorance within the vast populace and empowered their society with opportunities.

Mrs Umahi’s exceptional performance among the 36 states’ first ladies in the country in the last one year in office earned her this award and accolade as the ‘Most Performing First Lady Of The Year’, In The Trek Africa Award TAWA2016.

The award organisers noted: “The tall fair-skinned and beautiful wife of Ebonyi State Governor, Mrs Umahi, was voted as the ‘Most Performing First Lady’ having painstakingly reviewed her distinguished office performance and humanitarian services among the other first ladies in the last one year of office. She has advanced and promoted advocacy on issues affecting the well-being of women, children/youths, coupled with her exemplary leadership style, demonstration of excellence and empowerment initiatives that has improved the standard of living of the good people of Ebonyi State, by extension, Nigeria through her foundation – ‘Family Succour And Upliftment Foundation Programme’ – in consonance with government policy and complementing the very good works of His Excellency, Engr Dave Umahi.”

It is our utmost expectation that, after this highly ranked award, they will continue to be exemplary personality for the younger generation to emulate.

The First Lady Reacts

In one of her numerous outings, she charged Ebonyi women to be good wives and responsible mothers. She gave the charge while receiving a delegation of PDP women at the Governor’s Lodge, Abakaliki.

She stressed that women should always use their numerical strength to enthrone leaders of their choice. She said women have good number to be game-changers. The governor’s wife urged the PDP women to be good examples through positive conduct in their communities. She assured them that she will always carry the women along and charged that they should always give their best to justify their rightful place in government.

Mrs Umahi has not only distinguished herself through hard work and commitment to excellence in all endeavours, she is also a devout Christian, a caring mother in a million. Her marriage is blessed with seven children. She enjoys reading and travelling.

Conclusion

Tony Robbins, with my auntie in mind, stated: “Only those who have learned the power of sincere and selfless contribution experience life’s deepest joy: true fulfillment.”

From my accounts so far, one can conclude that Mrs Umahi only derives joy in helping people who are in need. As she turns 45 and matures into great personality, Ebonyi State and her people will surely have the best from this gift of God to us.

Finally, I urge all Ebonyi women and, indeed, women all over the world, to appreciate and encourage the humanitarian efforts of Chief (Mrs) Rachael Umahi, who has used her pet project to bring succour to the women of Ebonyi State in various ways.

Mum, God who saw you this far will surely take you to your desired destination in Jesus Name. Congratulations and happy birthday to the greatest Philanthropist of our time!

Monica Ada C. Eze is the 

President DUNAETA & TA On Media to Gov. Umahi and can be reached through: dunaebonyitransformation001@gmail.com, quintrelking@gmail.com

General Boroh Brokers Partnership between Akwa Ibom State and Innoson Motors

All is now set for Innoson Motors to establish a world class manufacturing plant in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State. 

This was confirmed as the Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta Affairs and Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Brigadier General Paul Boroh, led the Chairman of Innoson Group of Companies, Chief Innocent Chukwuma and some officials to Akwa Ibom State, yesterday. 

As part of the State Government's contribution, the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency Mr Emmanuel Udom, pledged 10 Hecters of land to support the project. He immediately instructed the State Commissioner of Lands, Arch Imeh Ekpo, to prepare the C of O, and promised to sign it as early as Friday. 

General Boroh, thanked the governor for his support and encouraged the Innoson team to keep believing in the prospects of the Niger Delta Region. 

The facility will immediately engage over 1500 youths, which will include beneficiaries of the Presidential Amnesty Programme. 

Some dignitaries in attendance included, the Technical Assistant to the Amnesty Boss, Major Abdul Matti (Rtd), the Special Assistant to the President on National Economic Council, Mr Donald Wokoma and the MD CEO of Jamub Global Services, Prince Jacob Momoh

DUNAETA Drums Support For Gov. Umahi, Advises Ebonyians Against Sitting On The Fence

....Congratulates Ebonyians on the 2016 WASC Feat

The David Umahi Nweze Akahboroha Ebonyi Transformation Agenda (DUNAETA) has called on all Ebobyians to unite and support their God-given Governor, Engr David Nweze Umahi, since he has demonstrated that he is on a mission to take Ebonyi to the next level.

The call was contained in a statement signed by DUNAETA Founder and President, Lady Monica Ada Chidinma Eze, and issued on Tuesday in the state capital, Abakaliki.

“This call becomes necessary because, sadly, some of our people have started listening to some enemies of progress who are out to sabotage the efforts of the Governor to make Ebonyi a reference point in governance and consistently deliver the dividends of democracy to our people,” Lady Eze, who doubles as the Technical Assistant on Media to Governor Umahi, said.

She pointed to some of the achievements of the Umahi administration in its less than two years of assuming office, saying: “The impact of Umahi’s divine mandate can be easily seen in the current peace prevalent in Ebonyi State, coupled with the massive infrastructure development that has made our dear State to look like one huge construction site, manifesting in three flyovers, the rehabilitation of dilapidated roads in Abakaliki and construction of roads in all the zones of the State.” 

Continuing, Lady Eze, who is also known as Ada Ebonyi, said: “Today, Ebonyi State is rated as the number one in agriculture and was declared as the best State in the elimination of malaria and healthcare delivery. At a time when, due to the current recession ravaging the country, most states are unable to pay staff salaries for many months, the administration of Umahi has not only increased workers’ salaries by 5% but also pays regularly on the 15^th of every month.

Few days ago, West African Examination Council (WAEC) awarded Ebonyi State the best tenth State position out of the 36 States in Nigeria including Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in the 2016 WASC examinations to prove the efforts of Umahi’s administration n the Education sector.

“Today, we are now hearing about what this Administration terms the 13^th month salary in Ebonyi State, with workers being paid extra one month after their collecting their December 2016 salary. Today, there is no family or community in Ebonyi State that is not feeling the impact of governance. Indeed, Engr. Dave Umahi has not only redefined governance but has achieved within less than two years what past administrators of the State could not achieve in the 20 years of the creation of Ebonyi.”

Lady Eze noted that Governor Umahi has more in store for Ebonyi but observed that he cannot do it alone, hence the need for all Ebonyians to unite behind him to enable him achieve more. “This is no time to sit on the fence. This is the time for us to rise as one and give this God’s gift to us the support he needs to continue his good work for our common good and greatness of our dear State,” she concluded.

We Reject Results You Declared For Etche/Omuma Inconclusive Elections – APC Tells INEC

The Rivers State Chapter of All Progressives Congress, APC, has rejected purported results for Etche State Constituency and Etche/Omuma Federal Constituency Etche/Omuma rerun elections reportedly declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Sunday, saying that the “purported results are for the rerun elections that were earlier declared inconclusive by the Returning Officers, Prof. Olatunbosun Odusanya and Prof. Omotola respectively at the Okehi, Saturday. They had subsequently announced that the conclusion of the process would take place today (Sunday) or on Monday”.

The statement which was signed by Rivers State APC Chairman, Chief (Dr.) Davies Ibiamu Ikanya JP said, “wewere taken aback when it was reported that the National Electoral Commissioner in charge, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu had ordered that the incomplete results be declared despite the earlier declaration by the two Returning Officers on Saturday at Okehi that the elections were inconclusive.”

The statement reads: “The APC vehemently rejects the results as declared today (Sunday) at the State INEC Office in Port Harcourt. This action by INEC runs counter and contradictory to earlier announcement on Saturday by the aforementioned Returning Officers who are the duly empowered persons to make such declarations. What INEC did today is a rape on democracy and the APC will surely resist it with every legal window available to it. INEC can only do what it did today because Gov. Nyesom Wike has, as usual, generously compromised key officials of INEC in Rivers State.

“The APC notes that despite the general outcry concerning Gov. Nyesom Wike’s interference in the electoral process, the governor physically held hostage a Returning Officer to force him announce results in a manner unbecoming of a governor. We condemn this and call on INEC leadership and security agencies to investigate this unfortunate incidence.”

“We recall that this same compromised INEC in Rivers State embarked on the now infamous 2015 elections which is unarguably the worst election in the annals of Nigeria. During the December 10, 2016 rerun that followed, INEC continued to exhibit unwarranted contradictions and unwholesome mishandling of the process which resulted in the further rescheduling of the rerun elections for Etche State Constituency and Etche/Omuma Federal Constituency. Sadly, INEC has, once again, bungled it.”

DUNAETA President Applauds Umahi’s Emergence as Chairman South-East Governors’ Forum

…Pledges greater services to Ebonyi

The Founder and President of David Umahi Nweze Akubaraoha Ebonyi Transformation Agenda (DUNAETA), Monica Ada Chidinma Eze, has described the emergence of Governor David Nweze Umahi as the new Chairman of the South East Governors’ Forum as the best new year gift the forum could give to the people of Ebonyi State. Miss Eze, who is also the Technical Assistant on Media to Governor Umahi, stated this in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital.

She congratulated Governor Umahi for emerging as the unanimous choice of South East Governors who met on Sunday in Enugu. “The unanimous selection of Governor Umahi to lead the South East Governors’ Forum did not come as a surprise considering the organisational acumen of His Excellency, his reputation as peacemaker and the wisdom with which he has governed Ebonyi since his assumption of office on may 29, 2015,” Miss Eze said.

The DUNAETA President described Umahi’s election as a good omen for the people of Ebonyi State. “It is a recognition of the sagacity, prowess of Umahi and acceptable of Ebonyi State into the mainstream of the politics of South East,” she stated.

Miss Eze, who recently underwent a major surgery in a private hospital in Enugu, thanked Governor Umahi for his invaluable support and assistance that enabled her to come out of it alive. “God,” she said, “has a way of rewarding good-hearted people like Governor Umahi. The news of his election is no doubt the greatest tonic that I need to fully and swiftly recover, as I am very eager to return to work and continue to contribute my quota towards the advancement of our dear State, Ebonyi. In this regard, I urge all Ebonyians to join hands with His Excellency to take our dear State to greater heights.”

Finally, my special thanks also go to Chief Austin Umahi the PDP South East National Vice Chairman, my auntie, Her Excellency, Chief Rachael Umahi the Founder of Family Succour & Upliftment Foundation Programme and wife to Governor Umahi, my special friend and brother, Onyeabor Ngene, SA on Special Duties to Governor Umahi for proving that under Governor Umahi we all are one united and virile family. I thank my Pastor, Rev. Mrs. Miriam Ukeni, my colleagues, brother and sisters for all their supports, prayers during my surgery. My immediate boss, Emmanuel  Anya, CPS to Governor Umahi whose calls almost on daily basis was a motivating force and my mother, Evangelist Henrietta Eze who stood by me throughout my stay in the hospital. God will surely bless you all as I have dedicated my life to assist Governor Umahi towards making the difference in governance in Ebonyi State.

Monica Ada Chidinma Eze,

President DUNAETA & TA On Media to Gov. Umahi

28-02-17  

Imaginary Division In Rivers APC, Glory Emeh’s Lone Swan Song Propaganda

By Tonye Banigo

When he claimed he had joined the All Progressives Congress, APC, a little over a year ago, not a few members of the APC especially from his Emohua Local Government Area grumbled. Their grouse was that they know the man Chief Emeh Glory Emeh too well.

According to an Emohua indigene (name with-held), Chief Emeh is like a tiger that can never change its spots.

“We told our leaders that those of us from Emohua know this man very well but we were ignored. They welcomed him with open arms but today, like the typical political bird of passage, he has moved back to the PDP where he believes he has the opportunity to scam the governor of huge sums of money in the name of conducting propaganda against the APC,” he revealed.

It does not take much to realise that Chief Glory Emeh has already started work as a self-acclaimed propagandist and lie merchant. He seems to have nothing else in his propaganda scabbard to please and scam Gov. Nyesom Wike and the PDP than to create and project a singular agenda of an imaginary division in Rivers APC.

For the man who prides himself in being a ‘media’ man’ on account of planting gotcha stories in newspapers, started by planting a story of how the APC in Rivers State is divided along different lines. Two weeks after, he has just sent out  another story under a pseudo name (Iheanyi Ezinwo) titled “Crisis of confidence rocks Rivers APC....as members move in drove[sic] to ruling PDP.”

This line of propaganda or narrative serves Chief Emeh two purposes. He uses it to accentuate his imaginary dooms day for the APC in Rivers State, something the right thinking public know is not true. The second reason is to try and justify his ignominious and shameful defection to PDP in search of filthy lucre, a movement even his Personal Assistant (PA) refused to do with his boss. There is no gainsaying that his closest associates rebuffed his persistent attempt of luring them to leave the APC and join the PDP. Tuth is that the man who regales in having made a fortune from former Governor Peter Odili through propaganda went alone to the PDP.

The real battle for Chief Glory Emeh should not be against Rivers APC, the uphill task before him should be how to launder his image as a notorious liar and serial betrayer before his old pals in PDP. He is known to have betrayed everyone else that has crossed his part in life. The list of his victims is too long for the space available here.

  

Undoubtedly, Chief Glory Emeh has a penchant for big ideas and sees opportunities to make money from propaganda where no one else does. He confesses to anyone that cares how he made so much money selling media-related dummies to former Gov. Peter Odili when he served under the latter. Emeh often narrates how he created some local tabloids, cloned existing ones all for the purpose of propaganda according to the textbooks of Chief Emeh.

  

While in APC, he attempted to lift from his old scripts but did not find easy victims to sell his dummies to. His motives were carefully studied, uncovered and ignored. Obviously his failure to sell those dummies for big money contributed to his decision to return to his old PDP camp where the Rivers State governor could be made to buy his schemes while Chief Emeh smiles to the bank.

However, he may face a huge stumbling block as there are already several handlers of the governor’s media activities. Beyond trying to personally bulldoze his way to secure something for himself directly from Gov. Nyesom Wike, Chief Emeh is likely to find out that like the good old saying goes, ‘all that glitters is not gold.’

By far, the most daunting challenge for Chief Emeh Glory Emeh is having to extract the confidence of most of the PDP members and Gov. Nyesom Wike who know Chief Emeh so well and perhaps more than they know the back of their palms.

Given the opportunity, I would advise members of Rivers APC not be worried with the planted articles and other lies under all types of pseudo names emanating from Chief Emeh as he has only one objective: to paint Rivers APC as balkanised and diminishing. When the public fail to see that happen, he will naturally run out of ideas as his only objective is to eke out big money from his new victims. Nothing more.

Tonye Banigo is a Port Harcourt based social commentator and political analyst