News
Gov’s Aides Brutalise Journalist
Barely two months after a journalist, Solomon Bassey of Community Shield Newspapers was beaten to stupor with his shirt torn to shreds by security operatives of Governor Godswill Akpabio at a reception for Information Commissioner, Aniekan Umanah in Abak, another, Paul Uffot of the same outfit has suffered a similar fate.
This time around the stage has shifted to the country home of His Excellency, Chief Godswill O. Akpabio, Ukana Ikot Ntuen, Essien Udim Local Government during the funeral of his uncle, late Dr. Edward Udoh Akpabio, interred weekend.
The journalist had joined the myriad of individuals to condole the governor when a team of plain cloth security operatives numbering over five swooped on the poor man as he was kneeling down before the governor and bungled him out of his presence.
The unfortunate journalist would have been bungled completely out of the venue but for timely intervention of some individuals who pleaded that at least he be allowed to stay in the venue.
Perhaps, moved by this height of professional hazard, the governor now beckoned on the overzealous dark glassed security agents to allow him to see him.
Even though he survived the onslaught, but not without having his entire clothing ruffled which made him almost like a mad man in appearance, quite different from other guests.
Other journalist who watched the melodrama were not only speeches but wondered why Akpabio’s aides have formed the habit of molesting journalists at their whims and caprices without the governor putting a stop to it.
A man who shared the same sentiments with the journalists who preferred anonymity could not help but wondered why politicians would use journalists when they are canvassing for position and dump them a moment they achieve their ambition.
The man who swore that he would never allow his son to be a journalist in his life, blamed it all on poverty.
According to the journalist in question who was ruffled to the hair, the governor later apologised, saying he was not the one who sent them.
But this, to the audience was medicine after death.
Speaking earlier, the governor announced that the Ukana Clinic built by the deceased has been taken over by the state government.
He thanked the guests who had put aside one event or the other to sympatise with him and advised that no matter the travails one might be passing through he should thank God.
Akpabio described his uncle dying at 82 as a ripe age, especially when considering the fact that he underwent no fewer than three open heart surgeries in his life time.
The burial took the form of a political rally as who is who in Akwa Ibom politics were present.
The 2025 annual general meeting (AGM) and conference of the Rivers/Bayelsa states chapter of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has come to a close with a strong call for both states to drive the blue economy.
The communique just issued after the AGM pointed to what it called emerging prospects in fish processing, seaweed cultivation, ship repair, and marine technology.
The communique which also mentioned human capital gaps that must be filled through technical and vocational training that are aligned with modern industrial needs, said the blue economy represents a viable pathway for Nigeria’s industrialisation.
It said MAN and Arican Marine Environment Sustainability Initiative (AFMESI) have the capacity to unlock Nigeria’s blue economy sustainably and inclusively, but said the region required dedicated infrastructure upgrades, including roads, waterways, and power.
The communique was signed by Vincent Okuku (Chairman of Rivers/Bayelsa States Branch); Michael Nosa Agana (Branch Vice Chairman/Chairman AGM planning Committee); and Chibuzor Eze (Executive Secretary, Rivers/Bayelsa States Branch).
The resolutions said the future of the Niger Delta economy lies in diversification rather than dependence on extractive industries. “Technology and innovation, value addition and local processing, strategic infrastructure, and a skilled workforce are essential pillars for the future of manufacturing in the region.
“Governments in the region must intensify support for manufacturing activities. Various forms of collaboration across sectors should be actively encouraged.”
It specifically advised Bayelsa and Rivers States to fully develop and harness the blue economy as strategic gateways for sustainable growth; and called for cross-border partnerships with neighbouring states to enhance trade, security, and environmental management.”
The Rivers/Bayelsa States branch of MAN held its first (41st) AGM outside Port Harcourt for the first time, hosted by Bayelsa State Government at the Chief D.S.P. Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall, with the theme: ‘Trade, Technology, and the Future of Manufacturing in the Niger Delta.’
In his welcome address, the chairman of the branch, Okuku, commended the Bayelsa State Government under the leadership of Gov Douye Diri for its efforts in industrial development, investment promotion, and strong partnership with the private sector.
He also acknowledged the Rivers State Government for its commitment to rehabilitating industrial clusters, improving access roads, and delivering key infrastructure.
He, however, expressed concern over persistent challenges such as high energy costs, unreliable electricity supply, weak transport systems, rising logistics expenses, multiple taxes and levies, inconsistent regulatory frameworks, and pressure from host communities, which continue to hinder manufacturing growth in both states.
The President of MAN, Francis Meshioye, noted that the Niger Delta, with its abundant resources and strategic location, holds vast potential for industrial expansion. He called for policy frameworks that promote local manufacturing, enhance trade, and attract investments to the region.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the Minister of the Federal Ministry of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, represented by Wasa Festus, Director of Community Development and Education. Another goodwill message was also presented by the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Investment, Ebieri Jones.
In his remarks, Gov Diri praised MAN for its contributions to Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, noting its resilience, innovation, and strategic role in national development. He stated that the conference theme aligns with his administration’s mantra of “Assured Prosperity.”
Gov Diri offered 24-hour service to manufacturers wishing to relocate to the state, and highlighted the State’s ongoing transformation through deliberate investment in infrastructure, security, and human capital aimed at positioning Bayelsa State as a hub for industrial growth, particularly in the blue economy, agriculture, and manufacturing.
He further noted that hosting the 41st AGM fulfilled a long-desired aspiration of the State following the successful 2024 MAN event in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. He officially declared the exhibition open.
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund has alerted the public to a fraudulent message circulating online, claiming that the NELFUND Student Loan Registration Portal is open.
The message directs applicants to a third-party link (http://gvly.xyz/Nelfund-Student-Loan, which NELFUND confirms is unauthorised and fraudulent.
In a post obtained from its X handle, yesterday, NELFUND urged students and the general public not to click on the link or provide any personal information, emphasising that the official loan registration portal is only accessible through the Fund’s verified channels.
The agency reminded applicants to exercise caution online and to report any suspicious links or communications claiming to be from NELFUND.
“Applicants are encouraged to always verify official announcements via NELFUND’s official website and social media channels,” NELFUND said.
This advisory comes as part of NELFUND’s ongoing efforts to safeguard students and ensure the integrity of the student loan application process.
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