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Showing posts from April, 2025

Lawyers Demand End of Emergency Rule in Rivers, Petition Trump, Protest in Port Harcourt

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By Meshach Osaro  Lawyers in Defence of Democracy is a group of attorneys who have taken to the streets to call for Rivers State to return to democratic rule.  Attorneys call for the suspension of Fubara to be lifted.  The group is urging the international community and the United States to exert pressure on the Nigerian government to reverse its decision to suspend the Rivers State House of Assembly and Governor Siminalayi Fubara.  The attorneys said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's proclamation of a state of emergency in Rivers state is illegal and threatens democracy, and they were led by Barr. Uche Chukwu Udeh Sylvester, their Country Director. They asserted that due process was not followed and that the president's decision was made without obvious and immediate threat. They asked President Donald Trump to step in and exert pressure on the Nigerian government to reinstate democracy in Rivers State in a letter.  The attorneys contended that the state assem...

Fubara Went to Wike, Begged for Forgiveness

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By Meshach Osaro. Weeks after his suspension, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara reportedly paid Nyesom Wike a visit at his home in Abuja in an attempt to mend fences.  Governor Abiodun of Ogun State and Olusegun Osoba, a former governor of Ogun State, escorted Fubara to Wike's home.   In the midst of the crises in Rivers, Wike's aide and close source Lere Olayinka provided additional information and confirmed the meeting.   According to PremiumTimes, the visit took place just days after Mr. Fubara met with President Bola Tinubu in London to discuss his political rivalry with Wike.  Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd) was named the sole administrator of Rivers State when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu proclaimed a state of emergency on March 18, suspending Governor Fubara, his deputy, and the state House of Assembly. According to sources, Olusegun Osoba, a former governor of Ogun state, and Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun state escorted Fubara to Wike's home....

Appeal Court Upholds Conviction of Professor Imprisoned for Rigging Akpabio's Election

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By John Obe  The conviction of Peter Ogban, a professor imprisoned in 2021 for sabotaging an election for a Senate seat for Godswill Akpabio, a senator from Akwa Ibom State, was upheld by the Court of Appeal in Calabar on Wednesday.   Mr. Akpabio is the president of the Nigerian Senate and a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).  After losing an election due to electoral tampering, he ran again in 2023, won, and was elected Senate president. A State High Court in Uyo sentenced Mr. Ogban, a soil science professor at the University of Calabar and a returning officer in the 2019 general elections in Akwa Ibom North-West District, to three years in prison for declaring fictitious election results in two local government areas, Oruk Anam and Etim Ekpo, in favor of Mr. Akpabio. In order to provide the APC an unfair advantage over its primary challenger, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mr. Ogban had explained to the Uyo trial court how the election resul...

Obio,/Akpor Administrator Restores Wike's Name at Council Secretariat

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John Ollor Obe  The Obio/Akpor Local Government Area Secretariat's Admin Block now bears the name of Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, the former governor of Rivers State.  The adjustment was made by Dr. Ndu Walter, the LGA's sole administrator, after Mr. Chijioke Ihunwo, the council's previous chairman, had previously deleted it.   Governor Siminalayi Fubara's ally, Mr. Ihunwo, had substituted the name of the late minority rights leader, Sen. Obi Wali, for Wike's.  Recently, a video was uploaded confirming that Wike's name has returned to the Admin Block. The decision was made during Rivers State's continuing political crisis. In March, Governor Fubara was suspended by President Bola Tinubu, who then named retired Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas as the state's new sole administrator to assume charge.  This action came after a protracted dispute over control of the state's political system between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Wike. John Ollor Obe

In Two Months, Nigeria Lost N118 Billion to Gas Flaring: Shell, NPDC, others to Pay $141.9 Million in Fines

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John Obe  Nigeria lost $78.2 million (N118.864 billion) in the first two months of 2025 due to gas flaring operations, according to the National Oil Spill Detection and Remediation Agency (NOSDRA). This comes as Senator Abubakar Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, said the federal government is using data-driven domestic strategies to meet its energy transition goals. NOSDRA's gas flaring report for January and February 2025 said that the N118 billion lost in the first two months of 2025 represents 31.48% of the total amount lost to gas flaring during that time.  The agency also reported that oil and gas companies operating in the country produced 22.3 billion standard cubic feet (BSCF) of gas from their offshore operations. The government reports that 22.3 billion standard cubic feet (BSCF) of gas were produced by the nation's oil and gas corporations' offshore operations.   The Central Bank of Nigeria's (CBN) current exchange rate of N1,520 to the dol...

Tinted Glass Permits Now Again Being Issued Nationwide by Nigerian Police - Force Public Relations Officer

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By John Obe  Vehicle owners nationwide can now formally restart obtaining tinted glass permits from the Nigeria Police Force.   The Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, verified this on Tuesday.   In order to avoid abuse and improve accountability, the FPRO claims that the decision comes after a thorough examination and the installation of improved security elements in the permit system.   In order to guarantee that permits are only issued for legitimate purposes, stringent rules will be adhered to, and vehicle owners are encouraged to apply via the official police portal. John Obe

Sheriff Oborevwori to Face Legal Action from PDP NWC.

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By John Obe  The Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, and other important players who recently defected to the APC will face legal action from the PDP National Working Committee, NWC.   Following a lengthy six-hour meeting behind closed doors at the party's national secretariat in Abuja on Tuesday, the party's leadership issued a statement ordering the PDP National Legal Adviser to begin the process of recovering what it described as the party's stolen mandate in Delta State.   According to Umar Damagum, the Acting National Chairman, the party's fortunes cannot be simply left in the hands of its enemies.   The party leadership designated Emma Ogidi, its South-South Zonal Chairman, to oversee affairs in Delta and spearhead reorganization efforts in an attempt to stabilize the party's structure in the state. John Obe

Top Officials Are Fired by NNPC in a Wider Organizational Reorganization

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By Meshach Osaro  Three state-owned refineries have had their management directors fired by National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd).  Additionally, the corporation instructed management employees who had less than a year left to retire to go.   According to reports, Mustafa Sugungun, the managing director of Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company (KRPC), Efifia Chu, the managing director of Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company Limited (WRPC), and Ibrahim Onoja, the managing director of Port Harcourt Refining Company Limited (PHRC), have all been fired. Additionally, it was stated on Tuesday that their jobs' replacements have not yet been formally announced.  Lawal Sade, the chief compliance officer and former managing director of NNPC Trading, and Bala Wunti, the former Chief Upstream Investment Officer at the National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS), who was recently appointed the Chief Health, Safety, and Environment Officer at N...

In the First Leg of the UEFA Champions League Semifinal, PSG defeats Arsenal.

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By Meshach Osaro  Ousmane Dembele gave Paris Saint-Germain the lead in their Champions League semi-final against Arsenal on Tuesday, winning the first leg 1-0. Dembele scored in the first few minutes at the Emirates Stadium, and Luis Enrique's team maintained the lead with a calm performance that held Arsenal at bay. PSG will enter the second leg at the Parc des Princes on May 7 as favorites to advance to the final against Barcelona or Inter Milan as they attempt to win the tournament for the first time, but considering their history of spectacular European collapses, the French champions shouldn't get ahead. It was a devastating blow to Arsenal's hopes of winning their first Champions League title as they suffered their first loss in 18 home European games.  The semi-final run of Arsenal was described as a "beautiful story" by Mikel Arteta.  Although reading the final chapter may be frustrating, they are still alive and well.  After losing to Manchester United in...

Husband of late Gospel Musician, Osinachi, Sentenced to Death by Hanging.

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By John Ollor Obe  The late gospel singer Osinachi Nwachukwu's husband, Peter Nwachukwu, was sentenced to death by hanging on Monday by an FCT High Court located in Wuse Zone 2, Abuja.  The decision was delivered by Justice Nwosu-Iheme, the presiding judge, who had already found Nwachukwu guilty of culpable murder in relation to the death of his wife on April 8, 2022.  The prosecution has proven its case beyond a reasonable doubt, the court ruled.   On June 3, 2022, Nwachukwu was charged with 23 counts, including culpable homicide with a death sentence, spousal battery, criminal intimidation, cruelty to children, and other connected offenses. The Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation arraigned him on behalf of the Federal Government. Two of the couple's children were among the 17 witnesses the prosecution called throughout the trial, serving as Prosecution Witnesses 4 and 5.  Twenty-five documentary items were also shown in court.  Nwachukwu...

The Nigerian Army claims to have seized almost 180,000 liters of stolen oil in the Niger Delta, deactivated 13 artisanal refineries, and arrested 23 suspected oil bunkers

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By Meshach Osaro. In cooperation with other security forces, the Nigerian Army claims that its soldiers have shut 13 artisanal refineries, detained 23 suspected oil bunkers, and seized more than 180,000 liters of stolen goods throughout the Niger Delta. In a statement, Acting Deputy Director, 6 Division Army Public Relations Danjuma Danjuma said that more than 45,000 liters of illegally refined diesel in sacks were found hidden at various locations as a result of operations carried out in Rivers State, specifically in the Orachi/Okolomade general area in Abual/Odual Local Government Area (LGA). According to him, more over 28,000 liters of stolen crude were found in two reservoirs near Obiafo in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA, and an active illegal refining plant was destroyed.  Two wooden boats carrying more over 3,000 liters of illegally refined diesel were stopped, seven suspects were detained along Obrikom-Omoku, and troops also discovered an illegal refining station in Bonny, according ...

Rivers and Edo Have Been Cancelled from Consolidated May Day Event, According to NLC.

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By John Ollor Obe  Citing the declaration of emergency in Rivers and purported political meddling in the activities of its Edo State council, the Nigeria Labour Congress has declared that the centralized May Day celebrations in Rivers and Edo states will not take place.  All affiliated industrial unions in Rivers and Edo States were instructed by the NLC's national leadership to restrict the May 1 Workers' Day celebrations to the state NLC secretariat.   The NLC leadership stated in a letter dated April 22 that the celebration should be a solemn contemplation rather than a show of fanfare, given the unique situation of the subversion of democratic governance in Rivers State. The letter was signed by Ismail Bello, the Deputy General Secretary. The NLC stated that although May Day is customarily used to honor the accomplishments of workers, the circumstances in Rivers State call for a particular emphasis on restoring civic leadership and defending workers' rights in a ...

His People, Others Adore Him as a Leader

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By Meshach Osaro  There isn't a leader I've seen who is so adored by both his people and people outside his country. With the exception of Nelson Mandela, I have never witnessed such a worldwide mobilization in support of a leader.  Everybody in Africa and around the world is supporting this young man this time, and they aren't just making noise; they are willing to help him wherever they are and with everything they own.  Africa betrayed Momma Gadaffi, but we will not repeat this regrettable error. I feel hopeful because of that.  There is no denying that Africa is awakened. We're standing directly behind you, Ibrahim Traore. Meshach Osaro 

Barcelona's Historic 3-2 Victory Against Madrid in the Final of the Copa Del Rey

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By Meshach Osaro  What a thrilling match! Barcelona's 3-2 win over Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey final was an instant classic.  The game had everything - drama, tension, and incredible goals. Pedri's stunning opener, Mbappé's equalizing free kick, and Ferrán Torres' decisive goal in the 86th minute kept the crowd on the edge of their seats. And when Jules Koundé scored the winning goal in the 115th minute, the Barcelona players and fans erupted in joy. Despite their best efforts, Real Madrid's day was not successful.  Given that they were ahead twice, Carlo Ancelotti's team will be unhappy with their performance.  Nonetheless, they displayed a lot of spirit and tenacity, which is a good lesson from the game.  All things considered, it was a memorable game that will live on for a very long time.  With their second championship of the year, Barcelona is now one step closer to winning the desired quadruple.  It was quite the evening! Meshach Osaro

General Michael Langley, Captain Ibrahim Traoré and the Silence of African Leaders

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By John Obe  The African Union, ECOWAS, and no African politician have spoken out in support of Captain Ibrahim Traoré since U.S. General Michael Langley, popularly nicknamed as "Black Judas Iscariot," called him before the U.S. Senate.   This quiet says a lot.  It demonstrates how the AU or ECOWAS would do nothing at all if the Western world—Europe and America—woke up tomorrow and decided to invade Burkina Faso and destroy Traoré.  Just as they did nothing when African liberation leaders like Lumumba,  Sankara, and Gaddafi were overthrown by the West.  Take a look at how Europe came together to back Zelensky and Ukraine.  Our leaders don't have that type of urgency or cohesiveness.  However, I'm not shocked.  "He who feeds you controls you," as Thomas Sankara once remarked. Neither the AU nor ECOWAS will stand up for Traoré.  They are devoted to their controllers in Paris, London, and Washington, not to the people.  Africa's m...

Ogbochure Association Attends Funeral of Her Treasurer, Late Dame Marilyn Ollor

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By Nwafor Oji Awala At the funeral service for her late treasurer and financial secretary, Dame Marilyn Chargba Ollor, held at the Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Eleme, the Ogbochure Association of Eleme, under the direction of its president, Evang. Ngajo Sunday Oyor, joined family members, friends, and other mourners. She was buried at her home in Ogale, Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State. According to Evang. Ngajo Oyor, President of Ogbochure, the late Dame Ollor was a practical woman.  He said that she was devoted to her club responsibilities and a wonderful friend.  “We lost a great Ogbochure member today.  She will be sorely missed by us.  "I hope she finds peace." Lady Marilyn Ollor earned her First School Leaving Certificate while attending the State School Ogale. Before pursuing her national diploma at Ken Saro Wiwa Polytechnic, she also attended Comprehensive High School, Alesa Eleme. Marilyn was born into a Catholic Christian household, ...

Cardinal Found Guilty of Fraud Demands to Take Part in New Pope's Election

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By John Ollor Obe  Despite being labeled a “non-elector,” Italian Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Becciu, who was found guilty of fraud and embezzlement, has argued that he should be permitted to participate in the next conclave to choose a new Pope.  After a financial controversy, Pope Francis urged Becciu, who had previously held a key position in the Vatican, to resign his positions and privileges in 2020.  In 2023, he was found guilty of financial offenses, but he has since challenged the decision.   The cardinal maintains that he should be permitted to assist in selecting the next Pope notwithstanding his current position. John Ollor Obe

Women Dare Ibas, Protest for Return of Fubara in Rivers

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By John Ollor Obe  Some women protested Governor Siminalayi Fubara's suspension today in Port Harcourt, despite the Rivers State Sole Administrator's caution.   Hector Igbikiowubo, the Senior Special Adviser to the State Government on Media, cautioned that the governor's supporters should be more restrained in their protests, yet the peaceful demonstration nevertheless happened.   Carrying signs calling for the governor's reinstatement and chanting songs of unity, the demonstrators marched from a major route to the Rivers State Government House.  They insisted that Governor Fubara had done nothing wrong and urged President Bola Tinubu to revoke the suspension and restore all democratic institutions in the state.  John Ollor Obe

Who Becomes the Next Pope

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By John Ollor Obe  The two leading candidates in the Vatican for the position of Pope are Cardinals Peter Turkson and Luis Antonio Tagle.  These are the odds as reported by Newsweek.  Pietro Parolin (Italy) 4:1 Peter Turkson (Ghana) 5:1 Peter Erdő (Hungary) 6:1 Angelo Scola (Italy) 8:1 Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines) 3:1 What Takes Place Next?  Usually, a papal conclave starts 15–20 days after the pope's passing.  Cardinals from all around the globe can travel to Vatican City during that time, which also permits the burial ceremonies and the novemdiales, a nine-day period of sorrow.  Ideological groups within the Church will continue to debate between continuity and a more conservative change, and the decision won't be known until a pope is selected in the Sistine Chapel.  The Selection Process for the Next Pope: The Selection Process for the Next Pope:  Popes are chosen in accordance with centuries-old Vatican customs.  Inside the Sistine C...

Presidency Reacts to Tunde Bakare’s Easter Message of Tinubu’s “motor park politics" Leadership Style

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By John Ollor Obe  Pastor Tunde Bakare referred to President Tinubu's leadership style as "motor park politics" in his Easter sermon, to which the Presidency has responded.   Daniel Bwala, a presidential assistant, complimented Bakare's speech as reasonable and helpful and stated that he is free to express his opinions.   Hector Igbikiowubo, the Senior Special Assistant on Media to the Rivers State Sole Administrator, responded to Bakare's remarks by saying that it was regrettable that Bakare was sowing division over the Easter season.   He added that the Ibas-led government would not respond to what he called Bakare's "vituperations" in a dignified manner, claiming that such comments would not advance the conversation or aid in the process of restoring peace in Rivers State. John Ollor Obe 

Human Rights Attorney, Falana Challenges Nyesom Wike to Report him to the Legal Practitioners' Disciplinary Committee

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 By John Ollor Obe  The Federal Capital Territory's Minister, Nyesom Wike, has been challenged by human rights attorney, Femi Falana to report him to the Legal Practitioners' Disciplinary Committee for analysis of the Supreme Court's ruling on the political situation in Rivers State.   Falana claimed in a statement on Sunday that the FCT minister is making fruitless attempts to get the Supreme Court to be against him.  According to the SAN, he did not fabricate or falsify the Supreme Court's ruling regarding the defection of 27 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, unlike what Wike claimed.  He rejected Wike's assertions. Recall that the FCT minister had publicly criticised Falana during a press conference in Abuja, saying that the senior lawyer misrepresented the Supreme Court’s ruling on national TV. John Ollor Obe 

PDP is Not Ready for 2027 Elections, Wike Declares

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By John Obe  Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has openly declared that the PDP is not sufficiently ready for the 2027 elections. According to him, the PDP lacks the strength to overthrow the All Progressives Congress, which is in power, in 2027.  This was revealed by the minister on Friday at a live media parley in Abuja.   According to reports, opposition leaders nationwide are stepping up their attempts to present a unified front against the APC. Nonetheless, conflicting interests among important parties have persisted in impeding the advancement of coalition negotiations.   "The PDP is not ready for the 2027 election," Wike stated during the media parley.  It's quite clear.  As an example, I am heading to class to read for my exam.  Yes, am I reading?  Am I learning?  There's no need to pretend that you're reading.  Reading merely serves to draw attention to the fact that you brought your bag to cl...

I wanted Fubara Removed - Nyesom Wike

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 By John Obe  Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory's minister, has voiced his displeasure with the president's decision to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State.   During a Friday media briefing in Abuja, Wike made this clear, stating that he did not want the emergency rule to be implemented in the current political crisis in Rivers.  “I am not happy with the state of emergency,” the former Rivers governor said. Citing ongoing political unrest and growing security worries, such as recent pipeline explosions, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in the state last month. For a period of six months, the president suspended all members of the House of Assembly, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, and Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu.  The move, according to security reports, was "inevitably compelling," he said.  Vice Admiral Ibas was chosen by Tinubu to serve as the state's only administrator in their place while the problem was being resolve...

ANALYSIS of A WARM EMBRACE, a Leon Vander-Molena poem

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  By Nwafor Oji Awala   “a warm embrace.. a close hug I now send to my beautiful friend who to my heart strings you tug but not with sadness or pity but with joy clarity truth absolute”   INTRODUCTION: Leon Vander-Molen, the author of the poem, conveys his thoughts for a close friend.   It looks at topics like joy, companionship, and emotional ties.   Although the precise location is not stated, the sentiments expressed imply a private, intimate environment shared between friends. The poem was published on the "Metaphorical Poems" Facebook site and was copyrighted on April 16, 2025, indicating a contemporary context. THEME: The message of Leon Vander-Molen's poem "A Warm Embrace" is one of intense, happy companionship and emotional bonding.   In contrast to sentiments of melancholy or sympathy, it highlights the warmth and optimism that genuine friendship may provide. SUBJECT MATTER: The speaker's feelings for a close friend...

New Exchange Rate as the Official Market Sees the Naira Depreciate Against the Dollar

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By John Obe In both of the official foreign exchange markets, the value of the naira has declined in relation to the US dollar.   The Nigerian currency dropped against the US dollar and is still above N1,600 on the illicit market.  In the coming days, the Nigerian currency will rely on the Central Bank of Nigeria's assistance to improve. Following yet another decline in value versus the US dollar in both the official and illegal foreign currency markets, the Naira reversed its gain to end the week on a negative note. On Friday, April 18, the naira ended at N1,600.5/$, according to data from the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM) released by the Central Bank of Nigeria.   Compared to the official market's closing rate of N1,599/$ the day before, Friday's exchange rate represents a minor loss.   Naira gained N1 against the Euro, trading at N1,817/€1 against Thursday's rate of N1,818.17/€1, while the Nigerian currency gained N1 against the British Po...

Alleged Attack on Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan's Family Home by Hoodlums

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On Tuesday, some thugs broke into the home of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central.   It was learned that the thugs used cutlasses and guns to attack the lawmaker's residence in the Obeiba-Ihima neighborhood of Kogi State's Okehi Local Government Area.  On Thursday, April 17, Zagazola Makama, a security specialist, stated that the thugs began the attack early on Tuesday. Yakubu Ovanja, Akpoti-Uduaghan's top security officer, told security authorities that three armed individuals broke into the senator's family house at around one in the morning.   According to reports, the robbers broke the house's window panes and vandalized the structure.  Although there were no reported casualties or arrests, Okehi Division security personnel were sent to the location right away.   Additionally, police are reported to have started the preliminary inquiry and paperwork process.

Mbah Promises to Immortalize Football Legend, Christian Chukwu

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Peter Mbah, the governor of Enugu State, has promised to immortalize Christian Chukwu, a former Nigerian football player and coach.   When the governor visited Chukwu's family on Thursday in Enugu to offer condolences, he promised that they were not alone.   He called the late football player, who was also known as Chairman, a great who inspired millions of young people and served his country without reservation. John Ollor Obe 

Peter Obi Urges Tinubu to Cancel Trip to France and Get Back Home due to Insecurity.

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By John Ollor Obe  Peter Obi, a former presidential candidate for the Labour Party, has urged President Bola Tinubu to immediately halt his current trip to France and return to Nigeria in order to address the escalating security situation.   Obi blasted the President's prolonged absence in a statement published on his official X (previously Twitter) handle on Wednesday, as pipeline explosions tremble the Niger Delta and unrest erupts in Plateau, Benue, and Zamfara states. “Mr. President, domestic problems beckon,” Obi wrote. “In the two weeks you’ve been away, over 150 Nigerians have lost their lives to insecurity across the country.” Obi expressed concern over the killings, describing the situation as a national emergency. He questioned the relevance of a presidential retreat in a peaceful foreign nation when blood is being shed back home. He likened the President to a CEO who has abandoned the headquarters of a failing company, stressing that Nigeria needs decisive lead...

Plateau State Prohibits Night Grazing

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By John Ollor Obe  Caleb Mutfwang, the governor of Plateau State, has outlawed night grazing after a wave of violence and murders in certain villages claimed several lives.  Additionally, the governor prohibited cattle from being transported in automobiles after 7 p.m. Governor Mutfwang announced the ban in a statewide broadcast on Wednesday in Jos, thus: "systematic and premeditated campaign" to displace people. “To restore calm and strengthen vigilance, I hereby announce that effective Wednesday, April 16, night grazing of cattle is strictly prohibited," he announced. “Also, transportation of cattle by vehicle is banned after 7 p.m. The use of motorcycles is restricted from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. across the state until further notice," he added. “The scale, frequency, and intent of these atrocities are unmistakable. Let us be clear: this is not random violence. This is not an isolated conflict between farmers and herders. "What we are witnessing is a systematic and...

Dangote Refinery Lowers Petrol Price Once More, to ₦835 per Litre

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  By John Ollor Obe  The gantry price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), also referred to as gasoline, has once again been lowered by Dangote Petroleum Refinery.   In a new attempt to lower fuel prices, the price has decreased by 3.5%, from ₦865 to ₦835 per liter.   The change coincides with a drop in the price of crude oil globally, which in recent weeks has dropped from above $70 to about $64 per barrel. The refinery already lowered the price from ₦880 to ₦865 per litre, and this is the second recent cut.   Marketers did not pass the savings on to customers at the pump in spite of that action. John Ollor Obe 

2023 Election was Won Fairly and Frankly - Lai Mohammed

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  Although some supporters of the opposition candidates believe otherwise, former Information and Culture Minister Alhaji Lai Mohammed has stated that the 2023 election was not rigged for any candidate. "The major opposition candidates involved in the election know this truth but choose to continue on the path of claiming being rigged out so as to keep their support base intact with the false hope that they narrowly lost our due to the purported rigging," the former I minister said. He claimed that in order to refute the claim that the 2023 presidential election was rigged, the federal authorities contacted foreign media outlets.  During an Abuja meeting of former government spokespersons on Tuesday, Mohammed revealed the information.  He noted that there was an increasing global effort to undermine the 2023 presidential election. “Allegations of rigging had surfaced, largely centred around the delay in uploading results to the IReV portal—which, notably, plays no role in...

Rivers Judiciary Refutes Rumours of Court Ruling in Favour of Fubara

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The Rivers State Judiciary has refuted internet rumors that its High Court ruled in favor of Governor Siminalayi Fubara against President Bola Tinubu and former Governor Nyesom Wike.  Rivers State High Court Chief Registrar David Ihua-Maduenyi said in a statement released today that the report was inaccurate and deceptive, especially because it connected Rivers State High Court judge Justice Boma Diepirii to a decision that purportedly originated from a Federal High Court. That was made clear in the statement.  Judge Boma Diepirii is on Easter vacation, which started on Monday, April 14. She is a judge of the Rivers State High Court, not the Federal High Court.  He counseled the public and media professionals to constantly double-check information about the courts before publishing it and to ignore the entire story. John Ollor Obe 

300 Million Naira to NBA Was for Hosting Rights, Rivers Government Insists

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  By John Ollor Obe  The Rivers State Government maintains that the ₦300 million granted to the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) was not a gift as stated, but rather for the hosting rights of the NBA annual general conference.  Remember how the NBA claimed the money was a gift in response to the state government's demands for a refund?  However, documents indicate that the ₦300 million payment to the NBA was made with the mutual understanding that Rivers State will host the 2025 NBA AGC, according to a statement from the SSA Media, Rivers State Government, and Hector Igbikiowubo. According to the statement, Rivers State Government entered into the agreement with the NBA in good faith, knowing that hosting the conference in the state would provide substantial economic advantages for the state and have a direct and beneficial influence on Rivers residents' companies.  He warned that legal action would be taken if the money was not returned and characterized the NBA'...

Government of Rivers Denies Inviting Suspended Governor for Investigation

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  By John Ollor Obe  A widely circulated rumor that retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, the Rivers State's sole administrator, had called suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy for an investigation has been refuted by the Rivers State Government.  Our correspondent was informed by a state government official that the statement was fraudulent, claiming that no such direction had been issued. The social media statement inaccurately stated that Governor Fubara and his deputy, Dr. Ngozi Ordu, were scheduled to meet with the state administrator to discuss appointments made during the previous two years. John Ollor Obe

ANALYSIS of DUALITY, a Max Vorst poem

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  By Nwafor Oji Awala “DUALITY inverted personalities at the core, dumbfounded by sheer audacity layers of colours vibrant and dull spread like a carpet over a floor we searched a cure our voices a mingled cacophony we spoke hollow words, that echoed in unitym isunderstandings accompanied us as unwanted baggage on our back a solution emerged like approaching doom like a forthcoming event of uncanny nature cloaked in fearsome inability will our thoughts than fuse like sugar in tea or was it ever fate, unknown why but undeniable, unescapable solidified emotions and silent thoughts fear speaks to us, with thundering voice then silence and fading lights a blanket of black slowly falling fearsome in its gruesome identity with hands colder than ice”   © Max Vorst   THEME: "ANALYSIS of DUALITY" centers on the intricacies of interpersonal relationships, feelings, and the duality of the self.   The poem explores the dichotomy be...