Home Blog Page 426

NIMASA Advocates Effective Port Security For Safer Shipping 

By
James Orji
-
0
Dayo Mobereola - NIMASA DG
The Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola has noted that effective Port State Control (PSC) is one of the most potent tools of ensuring global safety and maintenance of environmental standards in shipping.
Mobereola who said this at a 5-day Regional Train the Trainer Workshop on Port State Control (PSC) for Member States of the Abuja Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), with the support of the International Maritime Organization, IMO further emphasized that the quality of the professionals who implement PSC determines its overall success.
Represented by the Executive Director, Operations, Engr. Fatai Taiye Adeyemi, the DG described the workshop as a reflection of Africa’s shared commitment to safer, cleaner, and more efficient shipping.
“Your presence here demonstrates our collective resolve to strengthen efficient maritime governance, improve safety standards, and enhance environmental protection across West and Central Africa,” he stated.
The DG commended the IMO, the Abuja MoU Secretariat, and all technical partners for their continued support towards capacity-building, regional cooperation, and the promotion of maritime safety in Africa.
Delivering a goodwill message, the representative of the IMO, Captain Ahmed Sewelam, reaffirmed the Organization’s unwavering commitment to supporting Member States through its technical cooperation programme to strengthen effective and harmonized Port State Control regimes globally.
“Effective regional cooperation and harmonized PSC practices are essential to eliminate substandard shipping and promote consistency across the region,” Captain Sewelam said.
He explained that the workshop provides a unique platform for delegates to strengthen their collective capacity as Port States, while discussing key elements such as inspection procedures, reporting, and strategies for improved performance noting that “together, we can strengthen Port State Control implementation and advance maritime safety and sustainability in the region”.
On his part, the Secretary General of the Abuja MoU, Captain Sunday Umoren, reiterated that capacity building remains a top priority of the Abuja MoU. He noted that effective Flag State control directly influences the quality of Port State Control operations, emphasizing the importance of strong national systems.
“We must continue to build capacity, strengthen cooperation, and share experiences to ensure that our region maintains high standards of maritime safety and compliance,” he said.
The Train-the-Trainer Workshop on Port State Control under the Abuja MoU represents another milestone in NIMASA’s ongoing efforts to strengthen maritime safety, promote environmental protection, and consolidate Nigeria’s leadership role in advancing regional maritime development.
The workshop, which is being held in Lagos, has brought together delegates from 22 countries across West and Central Africa to deepen capacity, harmonize standards, and strengthen maritime safety oversight across the region.

2027: Tinubu Not Invincible, Can Be Defeated- Amaechi

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
-
0
Rotimi Amaechi and Bola Tinubu2
Rotimi Amaechi and President Bola Tinubu

Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi has bemoaned the voter apathy among Nigerians, asserting that the problem could enable President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to stay in office beyond 2027.

He spoke amid complaints by civil society’s groups in the country that voter apathy marred last Saturday’s Governorship election in Anambra state, won by the incumbent Governor Soludo.

The ruling All Progressives Congress, APC has declared Tinubu as its sole candidate for the next presidential election, and the president has been consulting on his re-election bid.

But Amaechi, a member of the African Democratic Congress, ADC has urged Nigerians to vote en mass during the election, to ensure that Tinubu is defeated, and not allowed to come back to power, saying the only way to do this is for Nigerians to turn out massively during the election.

he also urged opposition parties in the country to put their acts together if they want to send Tinubu packing from Aso Rock, Nigeria’s Presidency.

The former Minister had recently declared his interest to contest against Tinubu in the next presidential election.

The former Rivers state governor spoke on Monday  at the fifth anniversary lecture of First Daily newspaper held in Abuja, the nation’s capital  on Monday, with the theme; ‘2027: How can we make our votes count?’

According to him, the fate of Tinubu as second term president will be determined by Nigeria’s turn out in the election, he also the governmet against electoral malpractice, urging Nigerians to ensure that they take control of the process by particpating actively in the election. 1 / 0:39

Amaechi: “The first solution to electoral reform is not the government. The people are the problem. The more you say they have written the results, the more you have voter apathy. Voter apathy will make President Bola Tinubu return to Villa.”

“Tell the people the power is in your hands. Come out. If Tinubu is that invincible, how was he defeated in Lagos?

“It can be repeated but first and foremost you must agree that the man there is not invincible. The problem is the opposition.”

Amaechi was among the APC presidential aspirants defeated by Tinubu in the party’s presidential primary. He has since became one of the ardent critics of the president.

Tinubu Not Interested In Tackling Insecurity, Soldiers Sent To Battle With Empty Riffles- Lawal

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
-
0
Babachir Lawal and Bola Tinubu

Babachir Lawal, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF has knocked the Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration of incapable of tackling insecurity in the country. He said his government has performed abysmally in the area of keeping the country safe.

The former federal government scribe said Tinubu’s predecessors, Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari showed capacity in tackling the security problems headlong, saying the problem has worsen under the incumbent.

Lawal spoke on Channels Television ‘Politics Today’ on Monday amid worries among Nigeria and international community of the spate of violence across the country particularly in the north, where bandits and Boko Haram terrorists are killing Nigerians.

The spate of insecurity in the country drew the attention of the United States, US President Donald Trump recently when when accused the federal government of incapacity in tackling the problem, particularly the alleged Christians genocide. The US leader had threatened to use military force against Nigeria if the government failed to take action.

The former SGF said his state Adamawa had experienced serious insecurity since Tinubu came to office, saying civilians and soldiers are now being killed at will by the terrorists, who also sack communities after attacking them.

“Past governments were better, more accommodating. They served Nigerians better in the sense of equity, intention to fight corruption, and being fair and just.

“Even in the sense of insecurity, Goodluck Jonathan fought insecurity. Buhari took over and did; this government is not interested in that,” he said.

He questioned the president and National Security Adviser, NSA Nuhu Ribadu’s ability to rein in the worsening insecurity problem in the country, saying the situation has got worse since the incumbent took over power in 2023.

Lawal: “I don’t see what work he [Ribadu] is doing. If I see what work he is doing, I will tell you.

“If I see results of what they are doing, I will say it. It won’t hurt me.

“I know soldiers are out there, some are losing their lives, quite a lot of them are from my community who have come back dead. I know them.

“Why are they losing their lives? Because the system that ought to support them has failed.

“When you send the soldier into the battle with an old, antiquated rifle that can only hold 20 ammunition and is facing an enemy that has one kilometre of bullets, you shoot one, it jams.”

Lawal was SGF under the administration of President Buhari but was later sacked from office over alleged corruption.

Anambra Polls: Ekwunife Congratulates Governor Soludo, Her Principal, Ukachukwu Rejects Outcome

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
-
0
Charles Soudo and Uche Ekwunife

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Deputy Governorship candidate of the All Progressive Congress APC in the just concluded Anambra’ state off-circle gubernatorial polls, Senator Uche Ekwunife, on Monday, October 10, 2025, congratulated Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo’ on his re-election for a second term in office.

However, the congratulatory message is coming against the backdrop of the rejection of the outcome of the election by the APC Governorship Candidate, Prince Nicolas Ukachukwu.

The Source reports that, Governor Soludo was on Sunday October 9,2025 declared winner of the November 8,polls ,by the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC.

But almost all his opponents, including the APC candidate have described the election and its outcome as totally unacceptable.

In a statement personally signed by her, the APC Governorship running mate, also appreciated her supporters for their resilience and commitment before and during the election.

Senator Ekwunife thanked  Prince Ukachukwu, members of the APC campaign team, and others who in one way or the other showed faith in their vision for a better Anambra’ state.

In her message, she urged all stakeholders to rally behind the Governor now that the election is over in the collective interest of Anambra’ state.

Senator Ekwunife emphasized the need to sustain the peace, progress, and unity of Anambra state by all citizens.

“I extend my warm congratulations to His Excellency, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, on his victory and re-election for a second term.

“When Anambra succeeds, we all succeed. I encourage everyone to join hands to build a stronger and more prosperous state.

“My appreciation goes to the young people who trooped out on the election day, the mothers who prayed through the nights and every individual who shared in the vision for a better Anambra .Your passion reflected that politics can indeed be about people and purpose.

“Though the election outcome may not have been what we desired, I am profoundly proud of the efforts we put into this race .

“I am humbled by the outpouring of love and support we received ,which is a victory of faith, unity and hope that no ballot can erase” Ekwunife stated.

However, while reacting to the election’s outcome on Monday,the APC candidate Ukachukwu, described the exercise as a sham.

He insisted that the polls were generally marred by intimidation, and attacks on his supporters, most of whom were seriously injured.

Prince Ukachukwu informed that he is presently consulting with his supporters, party stakeholders, and others with a view to determining the next line of action.

The APC candidate polled 99,000 votes to place second, behind Governor Soludo.

It is not known yet why Senator Ekwunife threaded a different path from the Governorship Candidate over the election outcome.

Sir, Bring The Public Spat  To An End

By
The Source
-
1
Senator Ned Nwoko and Regina Daniels

By Isaac Asabor

An Open Letter To Senator. Senator Ned Nwoko : “Public family spat hardly produce winners. They produce scars”

Dear Hon. Prince Ned Nwoko,

I write this open letter to you, sir, not with any intention of intruding into your private affairs, but as a concerned Nigerian who has followed your public life with deep respect and admiration. I have always regarded you as a man of honour, intellect, and influence, and an achiever who has made his mark both in politics and philanthropy. You have been a strong voice for Anioma people and a tireless advocate for the creation of Anioma State. You have also continued to distinguish yourself as a lawmaker of uncommon vision and dedication to the people of Delta North Senatorial District in the National Assembly, who you currently serve, and the people of Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency who you ably represented at the House of Representatives, from 1999 to 2003

It is precisely because of this high regard that I find it necessary to address you at this delicate moment. What has been trending across social media platforms and making rounds in the news about your reported feud with your wife and your in-laws has been disheartening.

The tone, content, and frequency of these reports are not palatable. They not only cast shadows on your personal life but, unfortunately, also spill into the public’s perception of your character as a respected statesman.

In every man’s life, no matter how powerful, wealthy, or influential, moments arise that test his patience, humility, and wisdom. It is during such times that one’s true character is revealed.

The ongoing public spat, as the reports suggest, is one of such moments. And I write today to humbly urge you, as one who has long stood tall in leadership and public life, to bring this situation to an end.

There is an age-old truth, Sir, that nothing under the sun lasts forever, neither joy nor pain, neither triumphs nor conflict. Even the Bible affirms this in Ecclesiastes 3:1, which says, “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” This, I believe, is the time for peace. It is the season to lay down whatever grievances may exist and seek reconciliation, for there is no glory in prolonging a feud, especially one that plays out before the watching eyes of millions.

You are a man many young Nigerians look up to, not only because of your affluence or political status, but because you represent the possibility of turning privilege into public good. Through your advocacy for Anioma State, your legislative initiatives, and your philanthropic projects, you have shown that power, when rightly used, can be a tool for progress. But even the greatest leaders are ultimately remembered more for their humanity than their titles.

It is in this light that I appeal to you to take the bold and noble path of reconciliation. As Scripture reminds us in Matthew 5:9, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.” There is divine honour in being a peacemaker, particularly within one’s family.

Your home, Sir, should be your strongest fortress, your most reliable refuge, and the place from which you draw strength to lead others. When peace reigns there, everything else aligns.

It is true that every marriage faces storms. Differences, misunderstandings, and emotional strains are part of human relationships. However, what distinguishes a wise man from the rest is how he responds to conflict. The Book of Proverbs 15:1 reminds us that “A soft answer turneth away wrath, but grievous words stir up anger.”

You have the wisdom, composure, and spiritual depth to apply that principle now. You have faced tougher battles in the political arena, where egos, interests, and rivalries often collide. Surely, with that same grace and patience, you can also mend the walls of your home.

Sir, allow me to state this truth plainly: public family disputes rarely have winners. What they produce are scars, emotional for those involved and reputational for those in the public eye. The comments, ridicule, and online arguments currently surrounding this issue are not befitting of your legacy. They are distractions that threaten to overshadow your great works. But the beauty of life, and indeed of leadership, is that one act of humility can erase a thousand missteps.

Find a way, sir, to wipe off the footprints of this saga from the social media landscape. The same platforms that now host unpleasant stories about you can, in due time, host stories of your forgiveness, unity, and renewed peace. Let the headlines change from tales of division to news of reconciliation. Nigerians are quick to criticize, yes, but they are equally quick to celebrate when someone shows the courage to do what is right.

Your Excellency, as a man of vision, you know that power and prestige are transient. What endure is integrity, humility, and peace of mind. It is easy to build houses, wealth, and empires; but building peace requires spiritual depth and self-control. Romans 12:18 wisely counsels: “If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.” This divine instruction is even more relevant when the “men” in question are members of one’s own family.

Please reach out to your wife. Reconnect with your in-laws. Let forgiveness pave the way for restoration. The world has seen enough of strife, especially in homes that once symbolized unity and success. And remember, reconciliation is not a sign of weakness. It is, in fact, the greatest expression of strength. It takes a humble man to extend a hand of peace when pride would prefer retaliation.

I am reminded of Colossians 3:13, which exhorts us to “bear with one another and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” This verse is not for the faint-hearted; it is for the strong, the kind of strength you have displayed in public life time and again. You have forgiven political opponents, critics, and detractors in the past. Surely, the same grace can be extended to those within your immediate circle.

Sir, it is never too late to restore what has been broken. In fact, the true test of leadership begins at home. By reconciling and restoring peace, you would not only heal personal wounds but also inspire many Nigerians who are struggling with their own family conflicts. You would become a living example that no matter how far relationships drift, love and understanding can still find a way.

Let this moment serve as a turning point. Let peace reign once again in your home. Let those who once spread gossips about the feud begin to share stories of forgiveness and restoration. Let those who mocked begin to marvel at the maturity with which you handle this issue. And above all, let the younger generation see that even in moments of difficulty, humility and wisdom remain the highest forms of strength.

Your political journey, philanthropic works, and legislative record already speak volumes of your achievements. But this, sir, could be your greatest legacy yet, not a bill passed in the Senate, not a project commissioned, but the healing of a home and the preservation of your name.

As Psalm 133:1 beautifully declares, “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.” That is the peace I wish for you and your family today. May God grant you the discernment to know what to do, the grace to do it, and the peace that follows reconciliation.

With all due respect, sir, I implore you to take this step. End this feud, reconcile with your wife and in-laws, and allow the light of understanding to shine again in your home. You have been a builder of communities, now be the builder of peace in your family.

May wisdom guide your heart, peace return to your household, and grace continue to crown your path.

Respectfully,
Isaac Asabor
(Journalist and Public Affairs Commentator)

Timipre Sylva, Fmr Minister, Fmr. Bayelsa Gov., Declared Wanted By EFCC

By
Akinwale Kasali
-
0
Timipre Sylva

By Ayodele  Oni, Suleiman Anyalewechi   & Akinwale Kasali

Timipere Sylva, immediate past Minister for State, Ministry of Petroleum Resources, has been declared wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC. He occupied the Ministerial position under the late President Muhammadu Buhari.

Sylva is, also, a former Governor of Bayelsa State.

The Commission  declared him wanted over an alleged case of conspiracy and dishonest conversion of US$14,859,257.

The EFCC, in a public notice on Monday, released  by its spokesman, Dele Oyewale, said the funds were provided by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board for Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical.

The full text reads:

“The public is hereby notified that TIMIPRE SYLVA, a former Minister of State, Petroleum Resources, and former Governor of Bayelsa State, whose photograph appears above is wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in an alleged case of Conspiracy and Dishonest Conversion of $14,859,257-part of funds injected by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) into Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited for the construction of a Refinery.

“Sylva, 61, is from Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. This notice is pursuant to a November 6, 2025, warrant of the Lagos State High Court.

“Anybody with useful information as to his whereabouts should please contact the Commission in its Ibadan, Uyo, Sokoto, Maiduguri, Benin, Makurdi, Kaduna, Ilorin, Enugu, Kano, Lagos, Gombe, Port Harcourt, or Abuja offices or through 08093322644; its e-mail address: [email protected] or the nearest Police Station and other security agencies.”

Since May 29, 2023, when President Bola Tinubu was sworn into office as President, Sylva has not been involved in any Government or Political  Party affairs, especially, as he, also, failed in his bid to clinch the Governorship seat of Bayelsa State for the second time.

Prior to that, he had declared interest in the office of the President in 2023, and was all set to take part in the Presidential Primaries when he suddenly lost interest and continued in his Ministerial job.

However, he  suddenly became front page news in the past one month when his name was linked to an alleged aborted Coup Plot    aimed at overthrowing the President Tinubu Government.

The Defence Headquarters denied there was such a plan, and explained that the arrested Military Officers are in detention because of other sundry issues not connected with a Coup Plot.

However, it failed to explain why Sylva’s Abuja residence was raided by soldiers who, according to Sylva, arrested his driver and his (Sylva’s) younger brother. He also said the soldiers destroyed his property. The arrested two are reportedly still in detention.

Accusing fingers point at him as, allegedly, the sponsor of the alleged aborted Coup plot.

Sylva, who is currently, out of the country with his wife, vehemently denies any link to any Coup Plot.

On why he is outside the Country, he said he was  in the United Kingdom for a routine medical check-up but would proceed to Malaysia from there for “a professional conference”.

The EFCC declaring him wanted adds a  very ugly twist to the Coup allegation.

Sylva was of the Peoples Democratic Party, Party, PDP, under which he was Governor of Bayelsa State.

But, he defected to the All Progressives Congress, APC, when nothing was going on well with him in the PDP.

Sylva is the second Bayelsa indigene who has entered into trouble with the EFCC after occupying the office of a Minister in the Petroleum Resources Ministry. The first was Deziani Allison-Madueke , a full Minister for Petroleum Resources under President Goodluck Jonathan.

She has been in self-exile in the UK since after Jonathan, and from there, battling all kinds of allegations against her by the EFCC – all connected to the office she held.

Six Senior Civil Servants Kidnapped On Way To CBT Exams

By
Akinwale Kasali
-
0
Gunmen - Kidnappers

By Akinwale Kasali

There is disquiet in the Ministry of Defence as six Senior Civil Servants were  kidnapped in Kabba, Kogi State by suspected terrorists on Sunday while traveling by road to Abuja for the 2025 Directorate Promotion Exam.

The Examination, a Computer Based Test, CBT, was made compulsory for the Civil Servants.

It was gathered that the suspected terrorists ambushed two vehicles including the one conveying the Civil Servants at an abandoned road construction site and made away with an undisclosed number of passengers while ransom is already being demanded.

Three of the kidnapped civil servants are staff of the Ministry of Defence who were traveling with other colleagues from Lagos to Abuja for the Computer Based Test.

Following this development, the Ministry of Defence Chapter of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria in a notice circulated to members described  the incident as sad and very disturbing, lamenting the policy change to hold the promotion test in Abuja and not zonal centres as earlier envisaged.

The association expressed regrets that some of its  members are at the receiving end of the decision of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation to hold the directorate promotion exams in Abuja despite the fact that the Computer Based Test (CBT) can easily be done anywhere in the country as earlier touted before the sudden change.

Before now, some participants in the exercise had expressed displeasure with the authorities for reversing the decentralization of the promotion exams.

They queried the rationale behind asking candidates to travel from all parts of the country to Abuja to write a computer-based test that can be decentralized.

Sources who craved anonymity said,

“Imagine traveling on our bad roads 12-14 hours from Lagos to Abuja one way to write a test of one hour.

“Returning is the same duration and experience. Those who may chose to fly are spending an average of Four Hundred Thousand Naira to and fro and you have not even included accommodation and sundry expenses.

“The whole scenario is painful and unbearable. There are those who have been coming to Abuja since 2018 to write exams four to five times for the same grade level. Every year you hear there is no vacancy for promotion. Yet the process is not decentralized.

“For those who have been kidnapped unfortunately, can you imagine the trauma their families will go through? Something needs to be done to eliminate the trauma,” the Senior Civil Servant emphasized.

It was also gathered that some civil servants in previous years had lost their lives in road accidents while on their way to Abuja for the centralized promotion exams.

Before this unfortunate kidnap incident, it would be recalled that the

Federal Civil Service Commission had, in a press release, solicited understanding from the candidates.

It also expressed hope that the examinations will, over the time, be decentralized.

A statement signed by Taiwo Hassan said, “As the Commission leverages on JAMB facilities for the conduct of the 2025 Directorate Levels CBT examination, we are not only concerned about the credibility and transparency of the process, but also the convenience of the candidates, hence, the commencement of the first run exercise at JAMB Centres in the FCT.

“Following feedback from the public, the Commission wishes to assure all candidates that it will consider the possibility of decentralizing the examination centres across the 36 States and FCT, using other technology-enabled innovations to make the process seamless for future examinations.

Hassan’s statement on behalf of the Commission’s Chairman reads in full:

“Federal Civil Service Commission solicits Candidates’ understanding on the 2025 Directorate CBT Promotion Examinations

“The Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC) informs the candidates sitting for the 2025 Directorates Level Promotion Examination that the Commission is aware of the inconveniences they may go through while preparing for the CBT promotion examinations.

“The recent social media publication on this matter is duly noted by the Commission. However, as with most innovations, there may be some gaps. Transition from manual examinations to CBT comes with its attendant hurdles both for FCSC and the candidates.

“As the Commission leverages on JAMB facilities for the conduct of the 2025 Directorate Levels CBT examination, we are not only concerned about the credibility and transparency of the process, but also the convenience of the candidates, hence, the commencement of the first run exercise at JAMB Centres in the FCT.

“Following feedback from the public, the Commission wishes to assure all candidates that it will consider the possibility of decentralizing the examination centres across the 36 States and FCT, using other technology-enabled innovations to make the process seamless for future examinations.”

Edo: Gov. Okpebholo Decries Lack Of Transparency In Handling MOWAA Project By Previous Govt

By
Ayodele Oni
-
0
Monday Okpebholo

By Ayodele Oni

As controversy over Museum of West African Art (MOWAA), being sited in Benin City, Edo state rages, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has revealed that some European diplomats sneaked to the state in respect of the project without informing him.

The Governor expressed surprise and concern over the recent visit of the European diplomats to Benin City for activities linked to the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA), stating that his administration was not informed about the visit.

Okpebholo made this disclosure on Monday while receiving a high-level European delegation, including EU Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Gautier Mignot, and German Ambassador, Dr. Annett Günther at the Government House, Benin City.

He later accompanied the envoys to the Palace of the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, where discussions centered on cultural collaboration and the ongoing controversy surrounding MOWAA.

Speaking at the palace, Governor Okpebholo decried the “lack of transparency” that has clouded the MOWAA project from its inception.

“Honestly, I wasn’t aware that such a gathering was going to take place. We have now heard from His Royal Majesty and will get to the bottom of this matter.”

The Governor revealed that his administration has set up a committee to investigate MOWAA and make recommendations to the government, emphasizing that the project had been handled without proper consultation or disclosure.

“The controversy surrounding MOWAA stems from the lack of openness by the previous government. It is curious how the project evolved from the Benin Royal Museum to the Edo Museum of West African Art (EMOWAA), and now to MOWAA, without clarity or consultation with our revered traditional institution.”

Okpebholo lamented that he inherited no documentation, financial records, or formal briefing on the project from the previous administration, led by former Governor Godwin Obaseki, describing the situation as “deeply troubling.”

The Governor also condemned the demolition of the historic Central Hospital in Benin City to make way for MOWAA, questioning the rationale behind replacing a critical health facility with a cultural project.

“Why destroy a functioning hospital to build a museum? We are proud of our heritage, but development must be responsible and people-centred.”

Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed that while his administration welcomes international partnerships, transparency, accountability, and respect for Benin traditions remain non-negotiable.

“Edo people are peace-loving and welcoming, but we will not condone secrecy or any act that undermines our culture and institutions,” he declared.

Governor Okpebholo assured the monarch and the people of Edo State that his administration would act with fairness, transparency, and respect for traditional authority.

“Edo belongs to us all. Its culture, history, and heritage must be protected, not politicized,” he concluded.

During the visit, EU Ambassador Gautier Mignot clarified that while the European Union has no direct financial investment in MOWAA, some EU member states, including Germany, have supported aspects of the initiative.

“We exchanged views in a spirit of dialogue and partnership. Our aim is to strengthen cooperation with Edo State and ensure peace and transparency in all engagements.”

German Ambassador Dr. Annett Günther commended the Edo State Government and the Benin Palace for their hospitality, reaffirming Germany’s longstanding collaboration with the state in migration management, youth empowerment, and cultural preservation.

“Germany has returned over 1,200 Benin Bronzes to Nigeria. Cultural heritage can only flourish in a peaceful and transparent environment.”

At the Oba’s Palace, Oba Ewuare II expressed dismay over the manner in which the MOWAA project was executed, accusing the former governor of attempting to “mortgage the rights of the Benin people” over their ancestral artefacts.

“My forefathers suffered during the British invasion of 1897, and it is not fair that this is happening again,” the Oba said. “The documents they brought for me to sign would have taken away our rights, and I refused.”

Catholic Church, Tivs Lament Mass Killings Of Christians In Taraba State; Call For Federal Government Intervention

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
-
0
Agbu Kefas- Governor of Taraba State

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Catholic Church has called on the Federal Government and Taraba state authorities to rise up to their responsibilities and halt the renewed wave of violent attacks and destructions being visited on many Communities by suspected killer- herdsmen in the Southern part of the State.

This is as the Tiv community in the State, decried the displacement of no fewer than 1000 families, and destruction of properties and farmlands worth several millions of naira by some terrorist elements in the last one week.

At an interactive session with the media on Monday, October 10, 2025 in Jalingo, the State Capital, the Director of Social Communication for the Catholic Diocese of Wukari, Rev Father John Laikel,  described as disheartening and devastating, the spate of killings ongoing in many of the Communities under the Diocese.

According to him, many members of the Catholic family have  been forced to abandon their homes and means of livelihood, owing to the orgy of violent attacks and killings being unleashed on them.

” It is disheartening that attacks on innocent citizens keep happening despite Government promises to stop the development.

“The pattern of attacks in Southern Taraba shows a deliberate and calculated attempt by Fulani herdsmen to permanently take over these communities for grazing.

“Most victims are returnees who have only recently resettled after earlier displacement”, he stated .

Fr Laikel noted that the attackers, after razing homes and destroying properties of their victims, proceed to be grazing on the farmlands, a development which he insisted, is glaringly suggestive of the devilish intention to occupy the Communities permanently.

He, therefore, urged the authorities, both at the state and Federal levels to wake up to their constitutional responsibilities of protecting lives and properties of the citizens.

The Catholic spokesperson further lamented the nonchalant and even compromising attitude of security agencies in combating insecurity in the affected Communities.

According to him, most of the attacks and killings occur despite the people duly informing security operatives before hand

” When we alert security agencies,they often complain about lack of adequate personnel and logistics.

” Meanwhile, innocent people are being killed daily, villages are being burnt, and survivors are left with horrific injuries. It is heartbreaking to see such disregard for human life”, Rev Father George Dogo, the Parish Priest of Holy Family Catholic Church, Takum, noted.

The Taraba Tiv Youth Development Forum, in a statement jointly issued by Torkuma Lupet Moses and Uko Moses Wuaga, President and Secretary, respectively, called on the Federal Government, in conjunction with the Taraba State authorities to urgently consider the establishment of more military and other security outposts in the affected communities to arrest the senseless attacks and killings of innocent citizens.

The Forum similarly urged the authorities to put adequate machineries in place to halt the incessant conflicts between farmers and herders in Taraba state .

“We also call on the Government to arrest the perpetrators of the violence and killings and their sponsors to face justice.

“Governor Agbu Kefas should facilitate a peace summit between Tiv and Fulani leaders to address lingering grievances”, the Forum stated .

Two Aspirants Lay Claim To Ekiti SDP Gov. Ticket, Party Says Bankole Recognized

By
Ayodele Oni
-
0
Social Democratic Party - SDP

By Ayodele Oni

Aftermath of the governorship primary election which was held last Saturday in Ekiti state, choice of a governorship candidate by the Social Democratic  Party, (SDP) in Ekiti state ahead next year’s election has caused division within the party.

It was gathered that two parallel primary election was held last week by the SDP with each producing a candidate.

The two candidates now laying claim to the governorship ticket are Adedayo Alade and David Bankole.

The  State leadership of the party however, seems to have thrown its weight behind Bankole describing him as the best for the party for now.

The party had earlier issued a statement to disown Alade, describing him as a usurper describing the primary which produced him as “illegal, null and void”.

The party explained that the primary was conducted by individuals suspended by the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party, which contravened the party’s constitution.

“The Ekiti State SDP and its Chairman, Hon Bamikole Ayodele, wish to dissociate themselves from the purported primary conducted by these impostors.”

Prince Afolayan Adewale

SDP Ekiti State Assistant Publicity Secretary who signed the statement stated that “We heard that the kangaroo primary was conducted in an apartment in Ijadu Area, Ado Ekiti, and the location is unknown to INEC and security agencies.

“The party emphasized that Ambassador Alade is not a registered member of the SDP, and therefore, not a legitimate candidate.

“The party has warned him to desist from using the party’s name or logo, and has urged security agencies to arrest and prosecute anyone found parading himself as an SDP candidate, apart from Engr Bankole David Oludele who was dully elected and announced by the party as it candidate to represent the party in the 2026 gubernatorial election.

“We hereby declare the purported primary that produced Ambassador Adedayo Alade null and void, and urge our members and supporters to ignore it.

“We remain committed to conducting free, fair, and transparent elections that reflect the will of our members.

Also reacting to the issue on Monday,  chairman of SDP primary election committee, Gabriel Akintoye, explained that Bankole emerged as the SDP governorship candidate in the party’s primary election held on Saturday after two other aspirants, Mr. Peter Adesina and Mrs. Adesola Dada, stepped down for him.

Akinloye, who declared Bankole winner of the primaries, commended the sportsmanship of the two other aspirants and urged them to work with the party’s candidate to ensure victory during the governorship poll.

He said, “SDP has produced a candidate with the virile, versatile, and transformative ability to improve Ekiti State. Engr. Bankole is known for his creativity and transformative ability to reshape Ekiti State.”

The SDP chieftain, who said that the SDP’s principle of justice, equity, and transparency guided the party’s primary process, added, “We are confident that Bankole is the best candidate to lead Ekiti State in 2026.”

1...425426427...3,042Page 426 of 3,042