Nation

THE STATES

Published

12 years ago

May 16, 2014

Adamawa
The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) last Tuesday
promised to sharpen the skills of INEC staff on effective report writing.
The Director-General of the fund, Prof. Longmas Sambo, made the pledge in Yola while declaring a three-day workshop for electoral officers opened.
He said the workshop was aimed at improving the knowledge, skills and attitude of the trainees in report gathering and writing, especially during elections.
Represented by Alhaji Jibrin Bukar, the Yola Area Manager of the Fund, Sambo said that the workshop was coming ahead of the 2015 general elections.
INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state, Mr Kasim Gaidam, ssaid that the training would be a continuous exercise aimed at building working capacity of the staff for effective service delivery.

Bauchi
The European Union has pledged to support the
Bauchi State Government in the areas of health, agricultural processing and electricity, to improve the living standard of the people.
The union’s Ambassador and Head of Delegation to Nigeria, Mr Michel Arrion, said this when he visited Governor Isa Yuguda at Government House, Bauchi last Tuesday.
Arrion said that he was in Bauchi to familiarise himself with the state, the needs of the people and to also identify areas of co’operation with the state government.
He said that having gone round to assess the rate of development in the state, the union had decided to support the state in the areas of power, health and agro-processing.

Borno
An Islamic scholar, Sheikh Modu Mustapha, said it
was wrong for individuals to coerce non-Muslims into embracing Islam without their consent.
Mustapha, reacting to the reported conversion of abducted Chibok girls to Islam by Boko Haram sect, said Islam had a distinct way of converting non-Muslims to the religion.
Mustapha said it was stated in the Quran that there was no compulsion in Islam.
Another scholar, Sheikh Ibrahim Suda, corroborated Mustapha’s position, saying that Islam was a religion of peace.
A preacher, Malam Suleiman Bagobiri, contended that the insurgents were only out to damage the image of Islam by their activities.

Ekiti
The Chairman of Africa Democratic Congress
(ADC) in Ekiti State, Mr Tunji Ogunlola, says his party would win the forthcoming gubernatorial election in the state.
Ogunlola said in Ado-Ekiti that the party had nominated a credible candidate, Mr Bola Oroko, as flag bearer in the governorship election, adding that he would transform the state.
The chairman also said that the party was committed to a free and fair election devoid of violence, adding
that the party was determined to promote mechanised farming as well as put in place cottage industries to create jobs for unemployed graduates.
According to him, the party will introduce free education from primary to secondary school level while agriculture will be made compulsory in the school curriculum.
FCT

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reiterated the Federal
Government‘s commitment to the security of lives and property of Nigerians, in spite of the security challenges.
National Publicity Secretary of the party, Mr Olisa Metuh, said this when the Forum of PDP Zonal Publicity Secretaries paid him a visit in Abuja.
Metuh, while reacting to the spate of insurgency in the country and the abduction of the Chibok School girls, said that the PDP was saddened by the development.
He added that though Nigerians might be expecting more from the PDP as the ruling party but the party was a better alternative for Nigerians.

Gombe

Funakaye Local Government Council in Gombe State has spent
N100 million on the execution of projects in the area.
The Chairman of the council, Alhaji Usman Ribadu, who disclosed this in an interview last Tuesday in Gombe said the projects were provided in all the 10 wards of the area based on the development needs of each ward.
He recalled that Governor Ibrahim Dankwambo had undertaken a constituency tour of all the local government areas of the state where each ward presented its development needs to him.
Ribadu said that it was based on those presentations that the projects were allocated for each of the 206 polling units in the state.
The chairman said the projects comprised of culverts, wells, bore holes, maintenance of health facilities, rehabilitation of veterinary clinics and educational facilities.

Katsina

No fewer than 28,386 people have so far registered for various
mass literacy programmes in Katsina State.
The Acting Executive Director of the state Agency for Mass Education, Alhaji Ahmad Doki, said on Tuesday in Katsina, that the programmes include: Basic and Post Literacy Classes, Integration of Quranic Education, Literacy by Radio, Women Vocational Class and Continuing Education.
He said that the agency had engaged 1,500 facilitators for all the programmes while the state government has spent N50 million on the payment of allowances of the facilitators.
Doki said that each of the 34 local government areas had at least one centre established in rural areas to reach the targeted people.

Kebbi
The Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone
10, Mr Bala Hassan has warned police personnel in the zone against extra judicial killings.
Hassan gave the warning last Tuesday in Birnin Kebbi while addressing officers and men of Kebbi Police Command.
He commended the Kebbi command of the police for the low crime rate in the state and urged the personnel to sustain the trend.
In a remark, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr Benjamin Onwuka, said that the 4,425 policemen currently serving in the state were inadequate for effective policing.
Kwara
The Kwara State Government says it will need about
N70 billion for the provision of adequate road infrastructure in the state in the next three years.
Dr Amuda Kannike, the state Commissioner for Works and Transport, said this last Tuesday in Ilorin while briefing newsmen on government’s N23 billion bond.
The forum was convened to explain why the administration and the one preceding it took N17 billion bond in 2009, N10 billion bond in 2012 and another N23 billion bond in 2014.
Also present at the briefing were the state Commissioner for Finance, Alhaji Ademola Bannu, and Mr Yomi Ogunsola, the Senior special Assistant on Investment Promotions and Strategy to the Governor.
Others present were the Senior Special Assistant on Media to the Governor, Dr Muyideen Akorede, and the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Alhaji Abdulwahab Oba.

Lagos

Some politicians in Lagos State have expressed their
support for a new revenue sharing formula proposed by the National Conference Committee on Devolution of Powers.
The committee had on May 5 proposed that 42.5 per cent of the revenue should be allocated to the Federal Government, 35.0 per cent to states and 22.5 per cent to local governments.
Presently, the Federal Government gets 52.68 per cent, the states get 26.7 per cent and 20.60 per cent goes to local governments.
The Chairman, Lagos State Chapter of African Democratic Congress (ADC), Mr Nkem Lemchi, said that the proposed revenue sharing formula was one that could promote grassroots development.
Malam Auwal Rafsanjani, the Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Center (CISLAC), an NGO, said the proposal would reduce over concentration of resources at the centre.
Nasarawa

Governor Umaru Al-Makura of Nasarawa State has
been called upon to offer more political positions to the Yoruba community and other non-indigenes with considerable amount of residence in the state.
Leader of the group, Mr Bola Oduleye, made the request last Tuesday in Lafia when he led his members on a courtesy called on Mr Ezedinma Nonso, Special Adviser to the Governor on National Integration.
Oduleye said that offering more political positions to non-indigenes would boost their confidence and offer political appointees the opportunity to contribute to socio-economic development of the state.
He commended the governor for appointing two non-indigenes into his administration, saying like Oliver Twist, they would want him to do more.

L-R:Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Political and Legislative Powers Bureau, Mr Folami Muslim, Commissioner for Special Duties, Dr Wale Ahmed, Deputy Governor, Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, Secretary to the State Government, Dr OlurantiAdebule and General Manager, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (Lasema), Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, at the 2nd Lagos Emergency and Disaster Preparedness Summit in Lagos, recently.

Nation

THE LAPSES OF THE MEDIA IN ELECTIONS

Published

1 day ago

May 29, 2026

The Tide

The media is supposed to be a platform through which people express their thoughts, beliefs, and opinions on issues of public interest. Unfortunately, it has often failed to live up to its role as the fourth estate of the realm.During the 2023 elections, the media recorded several lapses that deserve critical examination in academic and professional spaces. Before discussing these failures in detail, it is important to briefly explain the meaning, role, and duties of the media. In simple terms, the media refers to the main channels of mass communication, including broadcasting, print publishing, and the internet.

It is a collective term for all means through which information reaches the public. The media is often called the fourth tier of government because of the popular saying, “No media, no society.” This is not an exaggeration. Scholars have shown that the media plays an integral role in society, since political, economic, religious, and academic activities all depend on information flow through the media.

The word MEDIA can be broken down to reflect its core functions: M – Meeting the People E – Educating the People D – Discussing with the People I – Involving the People A – Accessing the PeopleSpecifically during elections, the media is expected to provide accurate and timely information to the public by reporting and updating citizens on government and electoral activities. This responsibility is central to keeping the electorate informed.The media also strengthens democracy by engaging citizens on critical issues affecting the electoral process. When the media effectively disseminates relevant information, the public can see through the failures of government, hold leaders accountable, and propose solutions that serve the common good.

Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram play a vital role in democratic societies because they allow mass participation. Unlike radio and television, social media is accessible to anyone with a smartphone and data bundle, making it the most inclusive platform for political discourse. Despite these roles, the media must not abandon its ethics or promote partisan agendas that mislead the public. In many schools of thought, the media is described as closely related to the judiciary.

People often see the media as a place to voice grievances and seek justice.However, it is fair to say that the media has lost ground by failing to fulfill its duties during elections. Below are ten key lapses observed in the February 2023 elections.Lack of coordination among journalists. Many press personnel who covered different polling units were poorly equipped and unprepared. Some lacked functional cameras and modern technology needed to carry out professional reporting.

Partisanship and breach of ethics. Media personnel, who are supposed to remain non-partisan, openly violated professional ethics by taking political sides and favoring certain candidates in their reporting.Commercialization of coverage. Some journalists prioritized money over news. It was disappointing to see professionals from reputable stations engaging in what I call “Oga, find me something syndrome” begging politicians for money in exchange for favorable coverage or interviews.Loss of independence and self-censorship. On election day, some journalists took instructions from politicians on what to report and what to suppress. This compromised the independence of the media and reduced public trust.

Poor post-election reporting. Few media outlets reported what actually happened at the polling units. Incidents of violence, voter intimidation, and irregularities were either underreported or ignored entirely, while praise was lavished on politicians instead of amplifying the voices of the people.Spread of misinformation and unverified claims. In the rush to be first, some media houses published unverified results and rumors from social media without fact-checking. This fueled confusion and tension among the electorate.Inadequate coverage of rural and marginalized areas. Media attention was concentrated in urban centers, leaving rural polling units underreported. The experiences and challenges of rural voters were largely absent from mainstream coverage.

Sensationalism over substance. Some outlets prioritized sensational headlines and conflict-driven stories over factual analysis of policies and candidate manifestos, leaving voters uninformed about real issues. Failure to hold INEC accountable in real time. While INEC faced logistical failures and delays, many media houses were slow to question officials or demand explanations on air, missing opportunities for live accountability.

Neglect of voter education. Beyond reporting results, the media did little to educate voters on procedures, rights, and what to do in case of irregularities. This left many citizens uninformed and vulnerable on election day.These lapses weaken public trust and undermine the credibility of the electoral process. For the media to regain its role as a watchdog of democracy, it must return to the principles of accuracy, impartiality, and public service.

The media must be informed to follow its ethics as the 2027 elections approaches. This is encourage electorates rely on the authenticity and objectivity of media practice.Failure to uphold media standards will further make the country plunge into political apathy, electoral violence and disgust for those in the media practice.

By KRUKRUBO, NYE TAMUNODIKI.

Nation

RSU, Otonti Nduka Foundation Holds Centenary Conference, Unveil Book on Values in Nigeria

Published

2 weeks ago

May 18, 2026

The Tide

Rivers State University and the Otonti Nduka Foundation for Values Education jointly hosted a two-day National Conference on 8 and 9 May 2026 to examine the state of values in Nigeria.

The two days conference held at Rivers State University convocation arena brought together academics, policymakers, legal experts and education leaders under the theme _“Trends and Challenges in Upholding Values in Nigeria.”_

The gathering focused on policy gaps, curriculum reform, and the role of ethics in public service and education.

The event opened on Friday with remarks from Vice Chancellor Prof. Chief Isaac Zeb-Obipi, who stressed the need to address declining moral and civic values across Nigeria’s education and public sectors. A book of abstracts for the plenary sessions was also presented to participants.

Key speakers included former Attorney General Chief Dr Kanu Agabi, SAN; NERDC Executive Secretary Prof. Shehu Salisu; Prof. Hauwa Imam, FNAE, of the University of Abuja; former Rivers SUBEB Chairman Ven Dr Fyneface Akah, ; former NIMASA DG Dr Hon. Dakuku Adol-Peterside; and RSU Director of ICT Prof. Sunny Orike.

Discussions centered on integrating values education into schools, tertiary institutions and public institutions, alongside the impact of technology on moral development among young Nigerians. Panel and plenary sessions produced practical recommendations for curriculum and policy reform.

On Saturday, the foundation marked its centenary with the unveiling of the book _Otonti Nduka in History_, launched by Chief Engr. Grant Offor, FNSE. The Nigerian Academy of Education held a ceremonial procession led by its President Prof. Olu Jegede and the Ikwerre Professors Forum.

In a communiqué, participants called for stronger collaboration between government, civil society and academia to mainstream values education nationwide. They recommended reviewing teacher training curricula and expanding digital platforms to promote ethical civic engagement, with the foundation pledging to share the outcomes with education authorities for implementation.

Dignitaries present included Ogbakor Ikwerre Worldwide as Chief Host, Prof. Emeritus Chief T. Uzodimma Nwala, the Ikenga 1 of Mbaise and first philosophy student of Prof. Otonti Nduka, alongside scholars and community leaders.

Amadi Akujobi

Nation

Shell, MAN Back Rivers’ Drive for Expanded Gas Supply to Industries

Published

2 weeks ago

May 18, 2026

The Tide

The Shell Nigeria Gas Limited, in partnership with the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, has reaffirmed support for efforts to expand gas distribution infrastructure in Rivers State as part of initiatives aimed at improving access to affordable, cleaner and more reliable energy for industries across the South-South region.

The commitment was highlighted during the SNG–MAN Business Forum held in Port Harcourt, where stakeholders from the industrial and public sectors examined the role of natural gas in driving industrialisation, boosting local production and strengthening energy security.

Speaking at the forum on behalf of the Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Gas Limited, the company’s Head of Gas Distribution, Mr. Chukwuka Amos Ejesi, described natural gas as a critical component of Nigeria’s energy mix and a key driver of sustainable industrial growth.

According to him, Nigeria’s gas development agenda has reached a stage where policy direction must be matched with practical implementation capable of addressing the energy challenges confronting manufacturers.

He noted that pipeline gas offers industries a cleaner, more dependable and cost-effective energy alternative capable of supporting uninterrupted operations, reducing emissions and improving production efficiency.

“Gas is the backbone of manufacturing, and we are encouraged by the growing recognition among stakeholders of the need for cleaner and more reliable energy solutions,” he said.

Ejesi stressed the need for sustained collaboration among energy providers, government institutions and industrial stakeholders to maximise the country’s gas resources for economic development.

He added that improved gas infrastructure would strengthen manufacturing value chains, enhance productivity and promote more competitive industrial operations across Rivers State and the wider South-South region.

Participants at the forum also emphasised the importance of expanding energy infrastructure as a pathway to unlocking industrial capacity, reducing operating costs and promoting sustainable industrial development.

Representing Governor Siminalayi Fubara, the Director-General of the Rivers State Investment Promotion Agency, Dr. Chamberlain Peterside, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to partnering with private sector investors to revitalise industrial activities in the state.

He identified key projects targeted under the initiative to include the revival of the Ahoada Industrial Park, the New Port City project and the proposed Bonny Industrial Park, all aimed at stimulating economic growth and expanding industrial opportunities along the Bonny corridor.

According to the governor, the long-term vision is to position Rivers State as a leading manufacturing hub in Southern Nigeria through strategic public-private partnerships.

Governor Fubara also commended Shell Nigeria Gas and MAN for sustaining engagements geared towards improving industrial energy access, noting that gas infrastructure development remains central to the state’s economic recovery plans.

He further observed that the gas sector presents enormous opportunities for economic growth, especially as global energy systems continue to shift towards cleaner energy sources.

The governor called on stakeholders to work collectively towards developing a practical and sustainable gas framework capable of supporting the state’s industrial and energy development objectives.

Chairman of MAN, Rivers and Bayelsa Branch, Elder Vincent Okuku, described gas as indispensable to industrial operations, noting that many manufacturers continue to struggle with the high cost of alternative energy sources.

Similarly, President of the Port Harcourt Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, Dr. Chinyere Ngozi Nwoga, said the transition to natural gas had become increasingly necessary for businesses seeking stable and cost-efficient operations.

“Pipeline natural gas provides a more cost-effective and reliable source of energy for industries,” she stated.

Also speaking, former Chairman of MAN in Rivers and Bayelsa States, Mrs. Emilia Akpan, stressed the need to align energy infrastructure development with investment in human capacity.

She maintained that rebuilding the state’s economy would require not only reliable energy supply but also the development of technical skills needed to support long-term industrial growth.

By Kevin Nengia