Nation

THE STATES

Published

16 years ago

January 15, 2010

Kwara

Police in Kwara State have arrested five suspects in con

nection with severance of a human head allegedly for ritual purpose.

Among the suspects is a septuagenarian who is alleged to be a herbalist.

It was clamed that the planned ritual was meant to make one of the suspects (name with held) become a rich man.

The police said its team of detective acting on information, found the severed head with another of the suspects (name withheld also) in his residence at Igbonna in Oyun Local Government Area of the state.

They said confession of the suspect on interrogation led to the arrest of the others.

The suspect, during an interaction with newsmen at the police head quarters in Ilorin, however, claimed that he was innocent.

Edo

Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomole, on Tuesday sent

three names of commissioners designate to the Edo State House of Assembly for approval to replace the three commissioners who resigned last year.

The nominees, who are expected to be in charge of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Ministry of Arts, Culture and Tourism, as well as that of Transport, are Anstem Ojezua, Dr. Cordelia Aiyowieren-Awize and Lucas Okojie respectively.

Three members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who were serving as commissioners in Oshiomole’s administration resigned their appointment in September last year over irreconciliable differences.

They are Vincent Akhere, who was in the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Tourism, Fedelis Oriafo, who was in the Ministry of Transport and Mrs. Sera Adetugboboh, who was in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. they had cited personal reasons for their resignation.

Bayelsa

Embattled contractor, Joseph Ajuwa, who is handling the

installation of the floodlights and electronic scoreboard at the Yenegoa Sport Complex, said the decision of the Bayelsa State Government to invite the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to arrest him over the uncompleted project is an act of victimisation aimed at discrediting him.

Ajuwa, who is the Managing Director of Yarbek & Company, denied claims that the project was abandoned as alleged by the state government.

In an interview with The Tide’s source on Tuesday in Yenagoa, the contractor said there was an agreement between him and the state government on November 4, last year, that the manufacturer of the floodlights would take 10 to 14 weeks in France before shipment, which takes a maximum of 30 days.

The state government had alleged that the contractor abandoned that N450 million project since 2006, despite several appeals that funds collected to complete the work.

Consequently, the governor directed the sports ministry to invite the EFCC to arrest the contractor for breach of contract agreement.

Niger

Niger State Governor, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, has

cautioned the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of inherent danger of imposing candidates on Niger and during the fourthcoming 2011 general election.

He also advised the nation’s traditional rulers, as custodians of the peoples’ culture and tradition, on the need to be conscious of their actions and inactions in order not to send the wrong signals to their subjects of their roles in politics and the next years’ election.

Aliyu gave the warning at Agaie headquarters of Agaie Local Government Area of the state, during the distribution of vehicles and motorcycles to Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) official in council areas within the Niger South Senatorial Zone.

He told the traditional rulers not to do anything that would be detrimental to their position but to act in compliance with the country’s constitution, which provides that they remain non-partisan.

Aliyu was responding to a comment by the Emir of Lapai, Umaru Bago, who said that with the presence of traditional rulers at the Agaie event, they were at liberty to attend similar functions put together by any other political party.

Lagos

Nigerians have been urged to make sacrifices to move the

nation forward.

The call was made by Venerable Igeni Isemede during the solemnisation of holy matrimony between Nkem Oyindamola Dike, daughter of the Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshall, Paul Dike and Ikechukwu Ebube Obianyor.

Ven. Isemede also said the nation could be improved if leaders eschewed corruption and other social vices, which he said, is “the bane of all developing countries”.

Rivers State Deputy Governor Engr. Tele Ikuru, represented Governor Chibike Rotimi Amaechi at the event, which took place at Our Saviour’s Church, Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.

Ven. Isemede said “he regretted the attitude of some citizens, noting that such were detrimental to the progress and development of the country, urging such people to have a rethink of God’s will in their lives”.

He also urged citizens to make their ways right before God. Isemede further enjoined the couples to provide succour from the vissitides of life to their spouses, saying “You are the umbrella your spouse has from the troubles of this world and prayed for the sustenance of the godly virtues in families.

Abuja

The Federal Government has assured members of the dip

lomatic corps of its readiness to combat crime and unrest.

Vice-President Goodluck Jonathan gave the assurance recently when he hosted head of diplomatic missions and international organisations at his Aguda residence, Abuja.

Governors and Ministers also attended the dinner.

Jonathan said peace and security formed a key area which would receive the government’s attention.

He spoke on the December 25 botched terror attack by Umar Farouk Abdumuttatalab on a US plane, urging the diplomats to see the incident in its proper perspective.

Jonathan said “Nigerians are peace loving people and responsible members of the international community.

“This incident must, therefore, not become an excuse to single out Nigerians for undeserved profiling and the application of restrictive measures which unduely impinge on our dignity, freedom and fundamental rights”.

Anambra

The state House of Assembly and Executive of the Peoples

Democratic Party (PDP) loyal to Prof. Chukwuma Soludo were at daggers drawn on Tuesday following indications that 12 of its members may be expelled for alleged anti-party activities.

Giving the indication, PDC Caretaker Committee Secretary, Tony Muobike, and its Publicity Secretary, Joseph Ofokansi, said the party is considering expelling the members who they claim are supporting Andy Uba, the Labour Party (LP) governorship candidate.

They had already written to the lawmakers mandating them to explain why disciplinary action should not be taken against them, adding that the de-registration of Uba, Mrs Uche Ekwunife and Nicholas Ukachukwu of the LP, Peoples Progressive Alliance (PPA) and HDP from PDP has commenced at their respective ward levels.

Delta

Delta State House of Assembly has warned on the delay

in competing the Asaba International Airport and the new Government House.

Its committee on Finance and Appropriation also ordered stabilini Visionmi, the contractor handling the Asaba Township Stadium and its chairman, Wale Babalaki, to appear before the committee next week Tuesday.

Chairman of the committee, Daniel Mayuku, gave the order last Tuesday at the commencement of inspection of some mega projects across the state.

According to him, most of the projects ought to have been completed last year, particularly that of the Asaba Township Stadium for which the contractor has collected over 90% of the contract sum.

Abia

Demolition of illegal structures is billed to commence in

Aba and Umuahia in February, according to the Abia State Commissioner for Lands, Survey and Urban Planning, Emeka Nwachukwu.

The Commissioner said this in Umuahia recently while briefing newsmen on the activities of his ministry.

According to The Tide source, Nwachukwu said some of the building blocked drainages, while others, which did not comply with the town planning laws would also be affected in the exercise.

The commissioner explained that the essence of the demolition is to accommodate the lapses noticed in the planning of the two towns when the digital mapping of the two towns begins.

He noted that many landlords have vacated the town planning laws by using their buildings for purposes other than what is contained in their certificate of occupancy.

Nation

MOSIEND Calls For RSG, NDDC, Stakeholders’ Intervention In Obolo Nation

Published

20 hours ago

December 1, 2025

The Tide

The Movement for the Survival of the Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND) has decried the neglect of communities in Obolo Nation and others in the Niger Delta Region

MOSIEND also called on the stakeholders to empower the youths in skill acquisition and other meaningful ventures to better their lives

This call was on Rhythm 93.7 FM Port Harcourt, Radio program, Talk of the Town, by MOSIEND Eastern Zonal Coordinator of MOSIEND Half Hour Comrade Tammy Bruce Longjohn, alongside Asarama Clan Chairman, Comrade Amos Zebedee Udu, and Unyeada Clan Chairman Comrade Owen Wilson Ngere monitored by our correspondent

The spokepersons underscores the urgent need for government agencies and development partners to respond decisively to the dire state of basic amenities in the area.

MOSIEND leaders in Obolo Nation lamented the absence of potable water, electricity, access roads, and other functional public infrastructures in the clans

“What is troubling is that these complaints continue to echo without corresponding action from the Rivers State Government, the Niger Delta Development Commission, and the oil companies operating in and around the area”.

According to the MOSIEND leaders, the situation has reached a point where community members, particularly youths and women, require deliberate intervention to rebuild livelihoods and restore hope.

They also emphasised the need for empowerment programmes, vocational training, and investments in local economies that depend heavily on fishing and trade.

The Clan leaders call for provision of small engine boats for fishermen and the construction of proper market spaces for the communities

Asarama Clan Chairman, Comrade Udu noted that the community participates fully in electoral processes yet continues to live without clean water or electricity.

He insisted that the clan is not benefiting as they ought to from any MoU with oil companies nor from NDDC projects, raises concerns about the fairness and inclusiveness of development planning in the state.

Equally troubling is the account from Unyeada Clan Chairman, Comrade Owen Wilson Ngere, who highlighted the alarming state of Unyeada Primary School, where children are forced to learn on bare floors without desks, chairs, or basic sanitation facilities.

” For a region that hosts oil and gas activities, such conditions are unacceptable and should concern all stakeholders”.

The Unyeada Clan Commended NDDC for the installation of solar lights in the communities, noting that the project is not enough for the entire community as they
appeal for more of the solar project in the area

While the leaders expressed appreciation to Governor Siminalayi Fubara for the ongoing construction of roads in the area, and to the local council Chairman for the provision of potable water in some communities, .

“Obolo Nation has shown remarkable restraint and continues to maintain peace, as noted by the MOSIEND Coordinator”.

“The issues highlighted are not demands for luxury,but are basic necessities that every community in the Niger Delta deserves.

“The time for promises has passed; what Obolo communities need now is visible, sustained, and inclusive development.

Chinedu Wosu

Nation

Film Festival: Don, Others Urge Govt To Partner RIFF

Published

1 day ago

November 30, 2025

The Tide

Prominent academics and industry players have called on government at all levels to partner with the Rivers State International Film Festival (RIFF) to unlock the hidden potentials of the film industry and market the State to the international community.

The appeal was made at the opening ceremony of the 3rd edition of the festival, held recently at Ezewali Event Centre in Port Harcourt.

The festival, which featured film screenings, workshops, and discussions, aimed to promote Nigerian culture and provide a platform for filmmakers to showcase their work.

A lecturer at the University of Port Harcourt, Prof Femi Shaka; Mr Tobechukwu Daniel: and the Chief Executive Officer of Down Town Cinema, Mrs Nneka Clareth commended the Chief Executive Officer of RIFF, Kate Ezeigbo for her efforts in promoting the culture of the Niger Delta and Nigeria through film.

According to Prof Shaka, “They are telling our stories the way nobody else will tell it. It gives them the opportunity to show the world what we have.”

He urged the Rivers State Government, under the leadership of Sir Siminalayi Fubara, and other Governors from the Niger Delta States to support RIFF, describing it as a marketplace where upcoming stars can showcase their talents.

Mr Tobechukwu Daniel, one of the founding fathers of RIFF, expressed satisfaction with the four-day programme, which was jam-packed with activities that had a direct impact on the participants and the industry.

He emphasised the need for government partnership, stating that funding from governments, multinationals, and captains of industries is crucial for the growth of the film industry.

“The international participation in RIFF programmes will boost our economy, as they will watch our cinema, buy our films, and give our youths opportunities to showcase their talent,” Daniel said, advising actors and actresses to focus on professionalism rather than godfatherism.

Mrs Nneka Clareth, who has been in the business for 12 years, noted that lack of funding is a setback to the nation.

“I want the government to support Nollywood in totality, because Nollywood covers visibility, sustainability, culture, tourism, storytelling, and a whole lot,” she said.

The festival, which featured free medical treatment, film production, scriptwriting, and discussions on various topics by professionals, drew participants from different parts of the world.

The organisers commended Kate Ezeigbo and her team for putting together a wonderful event, urging participants to make proper use of the opportunity.

Nation

Hausa Community Lauds Council Boss Over Free Medical Outreach

Published

1 day ago

November 30, 2025

The Tide

The Chairman of Hausa Butchers Association in Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State, Alhaji Hamisu Jika, has commended the Chairman of the local government council, Hon Solomon Abuba Ochoma for organising a successful free medical outreach programme that benefited thousands of people in the area.

The outreach, which was organised by the local government council provided free medical services to thousands of people, including the elderly, women, and children, healing many with different ailments.

Alhaji Jika described Hon Abuba as a visionary leader, who has the welfare of his people at heart, noting that he is a de-tribalised Nigerian citizen who is determined to run an all-inclusive government.

He pledged the total support of the Hausa community to the administration of the council chairman in all its programmes and policies.

According to Alhaji Jika, the Hausa community in Ahoada East is law-abiding and will continue to maintain the existing peace in the area.

“Honestly, I want to tell you that we are peace-loving people and we are solidly behind the administration of the Executive Chairman of Ahoada East in all his programmes and policies in the local government,” he said.

The chairman revealed that the Hausas and their hosts, the Ahoada people, have been enjoying a cordial relationship since they started settling in the area, stressing that the council chairman has been a good leader who does not condone evil.

He expressed optimism that Hon Abuba will improve the comfort and wellbeing of the people and transform the council area, noting that the chairman has his people at heart.

He, therefore, called on both indigenes and non-indigenes of the local government to rally round the chairman, as he needs their support to take the local government to another level.

He appealed to the chairman to look into the welfare of Hausa people and help them with soft loans to boost their businesses, noting that some of the Hausas were born and brought up in Ahoada and have married there, and there is understanding and cordiality amongst them in the area.

Alhaji Jika also called on the youths to be law-abiding and stay away from trouble, stressing that where there is no peace, there will not be any meaningful development.

It was gathered that the Chairman of Ahoada East Local Government Council, Hon Solomon Abuba Ochoma has indeed started well and is working hard to fulfill his electioneering promises, making him a charismatic leader and the man of the people.