Sunday 30 June 2019

RUGA Was Not Proposed By The NGF - Fayemi

Amid the raging controversy over the commencement of the establishment of RUGA settlements for herdsmen across Nigeria, Chairman of Nigeria Governors Forum, NGF and Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Kayode Fayemi has said the creation of the communities was not proposed by the NGF.

Governor Kayode Fayemi

He also said that accepting the proposal is voluntary, adding that RUGA is the brainchild of the National Food Security Council.

Fayemi further said he was surprised that Taraba State Governor, Mr Darius Ishiaku, kicked against Ruga, adding that the governor is a member of the council that mooted the idea.

The Ekiti State helmsman, who said these on a Channels Television programme, described RUGA as a response to the problem of settlement herdsmen face.

Friday 21 June 2019

‘We Will Not Relent In Our Quest To Secure Katsina State’ - Masari



The Katsina state Governor, Rt. Hon Aminu Bello Masari has reiterated his government's commitment of reinvigorating effort in ensuring the return of safety and normalcy to the affected areas of bandits attacked.

According to a report from the Katsina Media and Publicity, the Governor made this statement while receiving the new General Officer Commanding (GOC), 8th Division of the Nigerian Army, Sokoto, Major General Otiki H.O. yesterday evening at Muhammadu Buhari House, the seat of Katsina state Government.

Masari made a case for the essence of protecting people's lives, properties, integrity, honour amongst others; adding that, "without the people we have no one to govern".

While commending the Nigerian Army on the paradigm shift of approach to the fight against banditry, the Governor said it has started yielding positive results, adding that his government will forever be ready to accord the military operations all the requires as support from the state government so as to achieve the desired result.

The GOC stated that they came to Katsina State to make on the spot assessment of the situation at hand and reinvigorate the troops to double their effort in the "Harbin Kunama Exercise".

In the company of the GOC are; Brigade Commander of the Nigerian Army (17th Brigade), Katsina, Brigadier General Aminu Barde who similarly explained to the Governor the achievements of the banditry flush out operations since his taking over.

It will be recalled that the Katsina State Governor had taken measures to end the menace of banditry in Katsina state by introducing regional approach to the problem.

Operation Puff-Adder: 122 Suspects Arrested In Kano


The Kano State Police Command in line with the Inspector General of Police mission on Operation Puff-Adder and in continuation of the commands effort to rid the State of all forms of crime and criminality that threaten the nation’s internal security and order have arrested Kidnappers, Armed robbery suspects and ATM Scammers among others.

Addressing the media on Friday at the Bompai Police Headquarters, the Kano State Command, CP Ahmed Iliyasu said that command’s new operational strategies put in place with technical intelligence gathering and community policing strategy led to the arrest of 122 suspects from Thursday 7th, 2019 to Friday 21st 2019.



He listed the below as achievements recorded:

3 Kidnappers were arrested at Falgore Forest
11 Armed robbery suspects were arrested at Kano Metropolis
7 suspects arrested in possession of 53 different belts used by Police, Army and Immigration Service, 2 bags filled with Uniforms of Police, Army and Customs officers, 14 black berets cap, 6 Jack knives, 3 rechargeable torch lights and 8 pistol holders.
2 ATM Scammers were arrested at Sharada Qtrs Kano in possession of 7 different    ATM cards of different persons, Immigration service ID Cards, Honda Anaconda and the sum of N247,000.00 .
1 suspect arrested in possession of a Pump Action Rifle and 15 rounds of live cartridges.
Raids of criminal hideouts conducted within this period led to the arrest of more than 80 hoodlums popularly known as Y’andaba with various exhibits recovered.
4 Suspects arrested for Criminal Conspiracy, Impersonation and been in Possession of Jack Knife, Pepper Chemical Spray and other dangerous weapons intercepted in Wudil LGA of the state.

The exhibits recovered includes:
1 Pump Action with 15 rounds of live cartridges.
115 live ammunition of 7.62x39mm of AK 47 Rifle.
3 stolen motor vehicles recovered
53 bags of powder suspected to be cocaine
43 Knives.
58 Clubs (Gora).
20 other dangerous weapons and breaking implements.
9 Cartons of expired Bio-Vein Injection use for insemination and hallucination.
10 Handsets, and 1 laptop computer, and a desktop.
Large quantity of hard drugs, rubber solution, suck and die and intoxicating / hallucinating substances were recovered during the raids carried out.

CP Ahmed Iliyasu also said that 140 suspects that were arrested and paraded two weeks ago have been charged to various courts of law within the State, all those arrested now will be charged to court after investigation, as well.

“Adder Operation will continue throughout the State until all criminal minded persons either repent, relocates and leave the State completely or are arrested and brought before the law, CP Ahmed Iliyasu said.

Assets Declaration: Presidential Panel Drags Senator Nwaoboshi, Albert Bassey Akpan To CCT




.....set for prosecution

The lawmaker representing Delta-North Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, has been dragged to the Code of Conduct Tribunal by the Federal Government on a three counts of false declaration of assets. The charges were filed by the Office of the Department of Public Prosecutions, Federal Ministry of Justice. 

The senator was recently referred to the DPPF's office for prosecution by the Special Presidential Investigation Panel for the Recovery of Public Property led by Okoi Obono-Obla. A copy of the charges was obtained on Thursday.

It shows that Nwaoboshi is to be tried for allegedly making false assets declaration in his Form CCB1 submitted to the Code of Conduct Bureau by failing to declare three bank accounts he was said to have been maintaining with Sterling Bank (Nigeria) Ltd since 2015.

This is just as a Federal High Court, Abuja in a suit FHC/ABJ/CR/88/2018 between the Federal Republic of Nigeria versus Senator Albert Bassey Akpan presided over by Honourable Justice J.T Tsoho, ruled that the Special Presidential Investigation Panel For Recovery of Public Property is competent to initiate criminal prosecution against Senator Albert Akpan Bassey or anybody it has investigated.

The Court further held that the Prosecutor of the Panel, Dr Celsus Ukpong is competent to sign or initiate criminal prosecution and doesn't require the consent of the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice to do so.

The Principal State Counsel at the Federal Ministry of Justice, Mr Labaran Magaji, who signed the charges, alleged Nwaoboshi's action was contrary to section 15(1) and (2) of the Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act and punishable under section 23(2) of the same Act.

The charges read, "That you, Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, adult, male, Nigerian citizen and a serving Senator representing Delta North constituency within the jurisdiction of this Tribunal did make false declaration in your asset declaration Form CCB 1 No: SEN001098 in that you refused to declare Account No: 0008600331 maintained by you with Sterling Bank (Nigeria) Ltd which is in operation since about 2015 and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (1) and (2) of the Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act Cap 015 LFN 2004 and punishable under Section 23 (2) of Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act Cap 015 LFN 2004. 

"That you, Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, adult, male, Nigerian Citizen and a serving Senator representing Delta North Constituency within the jurisdiction of this Tribunal did make false declaration in your asset declaration Form CCB 1 No: SEN001098 in that you refused to declare Account No: 0006493689 maintained by you with sterling Bank (Nigeria) Ltd which is in operation since about 2015 and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (1) and (2) of the Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act Cap 015 LFN 2004 and punishable under Section 23 (2) (c) of Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act Cap 015 LFN 2004

"That you, Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, adult, male, Nigerian citizen and a ooserving Senator representing Delta North constituency within the jurisdiction of this Tribunal did make false declaration in your asset declaration Form CCB 1 No: SEN001098 in that you refused to declare Account No: 000997287 maintained by you with Sterling Bank (Nigeria) Ltd which is in operation since about 2015 and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (1) and (2) of the Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act Cap 015 LFN 2004 and punishable under Section 23 (2) (c) of Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act Cap 015 LFN 2004."

Accompanying the charges filed against the Delta-North senator was a document titled, 'an application to commence trial'.

The summary of the prosecution's case also attached to the charges, read, "It is the prosecution's case that the defendant, a serving senator was investigated and found to have falsely declared his assets in his assets declaration Form CCB1 No. SEN001098.

"The prosecution, in this case, shall rely on the exhibits and testimonies of witnesses to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt."

Ruling on the case that involved Senator Bassey, the Court also said that the Panel doesn't require to have the consent of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria before it can initiate criminal prosecution against anybody.

Senator Albert Bassey Akpan was arraigned before the Federal High Court by the Panel for refusal to declare his assets contrary to Section 3 (a) of the Recovery of Public Property (Special Provisions) Act, 2004. However, he objected to the competence of the Panel to file charges against him.

With the ruling, the coast has been cleared for the Senator Akpan to face the charges against him.

However, Senator Akpan though his Counsel, Solomon Unoh (SAN) has filed a Notice of Appeal on the 13 June 2019 against the ruling.

Reacting to the development, the Chairman of the Panel, Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, said that the ruling is great and that it has an impetus to the fight against corruption and strengthened the hand of the panel.


I Won't Appoint Those Older Than Me In My Cabinet - Ayade



The Governor of Cross River State, Ben Ayade has revealed his position on the appointment of older people into his kitchen cabinet moving forward as the leader of the state.

Governor Ayade who spoke to newsmen in Calabar on Thursday said he will no longer appoint people older than himself into serious positions of responsibility into his government.

Ayade revealed that much while explaining why it was taking him many weeks to name his commissioners and other appointees since he was inaugurated for a second term on May 29.

He said it was not in his nature to talk harshly to his seniors, the reason he said he was unable to shout at older members of his government in his first term.

“I am looking for younger people to appoint into my government. I will no longer appoint older people. I need younger people so that I can shout at them in order to fast track my government,” he explained.

Thursday 20 June 2019

Gov Dickson Confirms Employment Of 838 Casual Workers In MDA’s


….says henceforth no more casual workers in Bayelsa State

Bayelsa State Governor, the Honourable Seriake Dickson has approved the employment of 838 casual workers in all the Ministries, Departments and Agencies, (MDAs) in the state.

This is in addition to the 1,000 graduates, first class graduates, medical practitioners and other related professions earlier injected 
into the state civil service by the Restoration government.

Briefing the newsmen on Wednesday at the end of the 108 Executive Council meeting in Yenagoa the State Commissioner for Information, Hon. Daniel Iworiso Markson alongside Chairman, Civil Service Commission, Dr. Peter Singabele, Commissioner for Labour, Employment and Productivity, Chief Collins Cocodia, the Head of Service of the state, Mr. Luka Wellington-Obiri, said the governor gave the approval during the meeting and outlawed the practice of casualization in the civil service.

 Hon. Iworiso-Markson who extoled the governor for approving the employment of casual workers said it was a profound period in the lives of the beneficiaries as most of them had spent about 15 to 20 years as casual workers.

He disclosed that the affected casual workers would undergo screening exercise before the confirmation of their appointment which is expected to take effect from Monday, 1st July 2019.

Also speaking, the Chairman, Civil Service Commission, Dr. Peter Singabele thanked Governor Dickson for the approval, submitting that it would go a long way in addressing the problem of unemployment in the state.

He disclosed that the affected workers are expected to present their academics qualification, birth certificates and other relevant documents during the screening exercise which is expected to hold
on/or before July 1.

He added that by the extant public service rules, any applicant above 40 years of is not eligible while casual workers were not allowed in the public service.

He commended Governor Dickson for proscribing casualization due to his believe that is it criminal.

According to him, a verification of educational certificates, age declaration of the casual staff would be carried out soon and those above the age of forty are disqualified.

Also, Commissioner for Labour, Employment and Productivity, Chief Collins Cocodia said the approval for the employment of 838 casual workers is the third exercise by the Restoration Government.

Chief Cocodia noted that it is a boost to see more Bayelsans engaged in the civil service, while noting that more teachers would be employed as soon as Governor Dickson gives approval.

On his part, the Head of Service of the state, Mr. Luka Wellington-Obiri, described as cheering news the outlawing of
casualization in the state.

He assured Governor Dickson that the civil service would do its best to be better positioned to deliver on its core mandate of carrying out government programmes and policies.

He are advised the beneficiaries to take advantage of the opportunity by being diligent, hardworking and present at all times at their duty post so as to contribute their quota to the development of the state.

On the burial activities of the late literary icon, Pa Gabriel Okara, which begins on 20th June, the Commissioner for Information said the state would be mobilised to give a befitting farewell to honour him.

He, therefore, called on all traditional, political, opinion and community leaders including the three arms of government to avail themselves at the burial which culminates on Sunday with a thanksgiving service, adding that it is the only way to honour and appreciate late Pa Okara’s contributions to Bayelsa state, Ijaw Nation, Nigeria and the world at large.

Gov. Dickson Tops List Of Eminent Members Of Dr. Gabriel Okara Foundation



...Eulogises literary icon, Describes Him As Best Gift To Nigeria

Governor of Bayelsa state, Honourable Seriake Dickson and other eminent Nigerians were on Thursday named as members of the Dr. Gabriel Okara Foundation.

Some members of the Foundation include, Prof. John Pepper Clark, a great Poet, renowned historian, Prof. Ebiegberi Joe- Alagoa, Prof. Ernest Emenyonu of the Afrikana Studies, University of Michigan, Flint, USA and Dr. Seiyifa Koroye, Special Adviser on Strategy, Documentation and Community Relations.

Speaking during the Exhibition of Dr. Okara's Life and Works in Yenagoa, Governor Dickson said, though the 98 year old literary icon had transited, his works and contributions to the world of arts would continually dot the surface of the earth.

Represented by his Deputy, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah (Retd), the Governor noted that, the Foundation would be supported as a viable platform in producing the likes of literary legends as Dr. Okara that would continue to make the state and the country proud.

 Governor Dickson said his administration's policy to honour Bayelsans, who have made significant contributions and sacrifices to the development of the state and beyond informed its decision to bestow the honour of distinguished icon on Dr. Okara, Prof. Clark and Prof Alagoa.

Describing Dr. Okara as a humble and disciplined man whose literary works have served as a source of inspiration to all, over the years, urged the younger generation to imbibe reading culture for self-development.

Making reference to William Shakespeare, he said, the height reached by great men is not attained by sudden flight, but by dint of hard work.

In a keynote address titled, "Gabriel Okara: A Life in Writing, Professor of Afrikana Studies, University of Michigan-Flint, USA, Dr. Ernest Emenyonu said Africa has lost its first modern African Poet in the continent.

Dr. Emenyonu extolled the literary giant for challenging the intellect of young Nigerian literary scholars, motivating and pushing them to attaining greater heights.

He also expressed appreciation to Governor Dickson for honouring Dr. Okara by naming the State's Cultural Centre after him, while alive and called on other state governors to emulate the gesture.

Launching the Gabriel Okara Foundation, daughter of the literary icon, Mrs. Timinipre Okara-Schiller, said a major objective of the Foundation is to protect, preserve and promote Dr. Okara’s legacies.

She disclosed that the foundation would also give hope and succor to indigent children and youths in the society in dire need of the right motivation to excel beyond their immediate environment, as her father cherished and blessed the idea of the foundation.

Mrs. Okara-Schiller said her father contributed immensely to the development of the Ijaw Nation and served the country meritoriously in various capacities, while appreciating Governor Dickson for being a pillar of support and immortalizing her father Okara.

Dr. Okara who passed on in March this year after a brief illness in Port Harcourt would be laid to rest this weekend in Bomoundi, his hometown, Yenagoa local Government Area.

PDP Govs Condemn Police Raid On Taraba Gov’s Residence



The Governor of Bayelsa State and Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party Governor’s Forum, the Honourable Henry Seriake Dickson has condemned the Police raid on the residence of the Governor of Taraba State, Arc. Darius Dickson Ishaku on June 11, 2019

Police operatives led by a Deputy Superintendent of Police who claimed to have been deployed with a warrant from the Presidency’s Special Investigation Panel had broken into the Governor’s Abuja residence to conduct a search on it.

The Governor of Bayelsa State  condemned the Police action in a statement by his Adviser, Media Relations, Fidelis Soriwei on Thursday.

Governor Dickson called on the Inspector General of Police and other relevant bodies to investigate the illegal invasion of the governor’s residence with a view to identifying the culprits for necessary action.

The Governor also urged the National security establishment to adopt appropriate measures to protect Governor Ishaku, members of his family and officials.

He said, “We hereby condemned condemn the invasion and forcible entry into the Abuja residence of the Taraba State Governor, Arc Darius Ishaku, by people who claim to be police operatives.

“We condemn the illegal action and call on the police authorities to investigate this disturbing  incident with a view to bringing the suspect to book

“We also call on the national security establishment to take the requisite step to protect Gov Ishaku, members of his family and officials.”

CSO Sends Congratulatory Messages To Senate President, Speaker Of House Of Reps & Other Principal Officers


The Board and Management of Center for Peace and Environmental Justice, CEPEJ, has congratulated the Senate President, Speaker of House of Representatives and other principal officers of the National Assembly.

In a joint letter signed by Comrade Sheriff Mulade, National Coordinator and Chief Godwin Orhadahwe , BOT Chairman,  they pledged their support and charged them to use their good offices under their great leadership, wisdom and guidance; tackle pressing national issues such as those of security, peace and development of the economy.

Excerpt is the full text of the letter

Your Excellency Sir,

CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE ON YOUR EMERGENCE AS THE ELECTED PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE

The Board and Management of Center for Peace and Environmental Justice, CEPEJ, wish to congratulate you on your well deserved election victory as the Senate President of the 9th assembly, of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. We in Center for Peace and Environmental Justice, rejoice with you. We hope to collaborate with you for the good of Nigerians in general.

Center for Peace and Environmental Justice is committed to developing a network coalition of local, national and international leaders, as well as organizations to address critical issues of, peace, security, development and environmental degradation in Nigeria and Africa, while advocating the use of good governance, equity and justice as well as non-violence as the best approach to conflict management in line with developing the socio-economic status of our country and continent at large.

We set agenda for development discourse through research, media advocacy, workshops, seminars, town hall meetings, peace rallies, livelihood assessment sessions, peace-building, empowerment or capacity building programmes for community women and youths, partnership with government, other NGOs and community development organizations or agencies, as well as organizing brainstorming sessions on local and global environment issues.

We at the Center pledge our support and we respectfully charge you to use your good offices under your great leadership, wisdom and guidance, tackle pressing national issues such as those of security, peace and development of the economy.

Please accept our heartiest congratulations on your victory once again.

For: Center for Peace & Environmental Justice

Buhari And His Care For The Kyaris



By Bala Ibrahim

When shortly after the announcement of Mele Kyari, as the new GMD of the NNPC, I read the comments of someone on Facebook, who wants to change her surname to Kyari, because she thinks PMB has an obsession with the name Kyari, I became thrilled to the jaw with jubilant joy. Nigerians are greatly ingenious in humor, even when in distress, and that supports the song of late Fela Anikulapo Kuti, suffering and smiling. My mind also ran to a cliche that went viral on the social media one time, ingeniously crafted by another Nigerian, and credited to someone who converted to Islam and was asked to choose a name from the suggested prominent Muslim names. 

The said converter perused through the names, including Mohammed, the greatest of all Prophets, the founder of Islam and the most revered messenger of God, but wasn’t satisfied with any, despite the recommendations of the cleric who helped in guiding him to make the necessary proclamation of faith. He said he wants to be called DANGOTE. Hahahahaha! He thought the name Dangote is superior to Mohammed in Islam and he is what he is, because of his faith.

That brings me to Buhari and his perceived obsession for the KYARIS. PMB is today directly or indirectly working with three different people bearing the names Abba Kyari. The first Abba Kyaris are the chief of staff to the president, the second is a top ranking serving police officer of the Nigerian Police Force in the rank of a Deputy Commissioner of Police, and the third is the newly appointed GMD of the NNPC. The Confusion of their personalities is partly political and partly mischievous. Long before Buhari became the president, he had a Senior professional colleague in the military bearing the name Abba Kyari, who retired as a Brigadier General, after serving as one time the Governor of North Central State, with Headquarters in Kaduna, the residential city of the president. On becoming the president, PMB picked an Abba Kyari as his Chief of Staff. 

As a lawyer, journalist, banker and administrator, Abba Kyari has been holding that position and wielding incredible influence in the government. Political critics have accused the president of picking Abba Kyari as Chief of Staff because of military nepotism, saying he is the blood brother of the late Brigadier General, who hailed from the North East, and one who mentored Buhari and influenced his promotion and posting to the North East as Governor.

They also linked him up with the newly appointed GMD, who took over from Dr. Maikanti Baru. Those claims were punctured even by the most critic of PMB’s regime, in the person of Chief Femi Fani Kayode, who tweeted thus, “We must be factual in our criticism, otherwise it erodes our credibility. It is NOT true to say that Mallam Abba Kyari is the blood brother of late Brigadier Abba Kyari, nor Mele Kyari, the new GMB of NNPC. I have known Abba for 40 yrs and I assure you that Mele is not a member of his family.”

Another powerful Abba Kyari in the government is DCP Abba Kyari, the youngest DCP in Nigeria today and the most dreaded person in the criminal circle of kidnappers. Kyari is the head of the IRT, the intelligence arm under the office of the IGP, that has made name in tracking and arresting terrorists all over the country. Because of his fearlessness and dedication to duty, DCP Kyari’s name rings like a bell, as he gives sleepless nights to terrorists and make life miserable to the kidnappers. He is neither related in blood to the late Brigadier Abba Kyari nor the chief of staff to the president.

The coming on board today of another Kyari, who hails from the same north east zone, is also purely coincidental, but mischief makers may continue to be suspicious or even superstitious. The three Kyaris are not related in any way other than the coincidence of originating from the same region.

In the pursuit of merit and his readiness to rid the system of mediocrity, PMB is a constant victim of blackmail, which a-times comes amusing and bemusing, with the latest being his care for the Kyaris.

DSP Omo-Agege Appoints Igbuzor, Odunuga And Owoeye-Wise As Top Aides



The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie 0mo-Agege, has approved the appointments of Dr. Otive Igbuzor as his Chief of Staff and Mr. Yomi Odunuga as Special Adviser, Media and Publicity.

He also announced the appointment of Ms. Lara Owoeye-Wise as Senior Special Assistant on Electronic and New Media.

Omo-Agege, in a statement personally signed by him and released by his office yesterday, explains that the appointments which take immediate effect are based on merit.

Igbuzor is Founding Executive Director of the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development (Centre LSD). He was once the International Head of campaigns of ActionAid International and Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria. He was also an honourable Commissioner in the Police Service Commission (PSC). 

He was a Programme Co-ordinator of Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD), an independent research, information and training institution dedicated to policy oriented scholarship on questions of democratic development and peace building in the West African sub-region. Previously, he was a lecturer at the Delta State University, Lagos Centre and has published many scholarly articles on democracy, gender, politics and development. He is a versatile writer, researcher and author of several publications.

His specialties include but not limited to Strategy Formulation, Programme design, implementation and evaluation, Policy Analysis, Leadership Training and Research.


Odunuga is the Abuja Bureau Chief and Deputy Editor (Nation’s Capital) of THE NATION newspapers.

Born on June 2, 1966, Odunuga a poet, lyricist, reporter and columnist, started his journalism career with the PUNCH newspaper over two decades ago. He was, for several years, the State House Correspondent of the paper where he maintained two columns--Life in Abuja and the popular weekend treat called Inside Aso Rock.

His insightful and critical analysis of the intriguing politics of that period earned him accolades and recognition which later saw him being promoted to the position of Abuja Bureau Chief at PUNCH newspaper.

In 2006, he was elevated to the position of Group Political Editor of The PUNCH. He later joined THE NATION newspaper as an Assistant Editor and Bureau Chief in Abuja. At THE NATION, his rested PUNCH newspaper column, Knuckles transformed into Knucklehead which offers him the opportunity to continue his weekly interrogation and critique of the socio-political developments in the polity.

The 1990 best graduating student of the then Olabisi Onabanjo State University has attended several journalism courses in Nigeria and outside the country.



The widely-traveled journalist is married to Toyosi Odunuga and the couple is blessed with children.

A graduate of Religion and philosophy from the University of Jos, Plateau State, Owoeye-Wise is a multiple award winning journalist whose experience has spanned over two decades and has spread between the print and the electronic media. 

She has worked at The Punch Newspapers, The News Magazine, AM News and Tempo tabloids. She crossed over to the electronic media as a pioneer staff for Silverbird TV, a pioneer staff of the resuscitated Minaj Broadcast International, MBI, and was Deputy Head of Presentation, Senior News Editor, news anchor and chief correspondent at Africa Independent Television, AIT before her appointment as Senior Assistant, Media to the immediate past Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives. 

Lara has had a working stint with the Voice of American, Washington DC and KSTP Channel 5, Minnesota.

Bayelsa 2020: Who The Cap Might Not Fit


By Joshua Ebiegberi


On February 14, 2020, the only Valentine's Day governor in Nigeria would bid farewell to the Creek Haven seat of power in Bayelsa State. That day, the Honourable Henry Seriake Dickson would have completed eight remarkable years as governor of the most riverine and deltaic state in Nigeria known as the Glory of All Lands.

Without doubt, the towering figure commonly called the Countriman Governor would be leaving not only very big shoes for his successor but also an oversized bowler hat. Apart from his hugely successful and impactful developmental strides across the state, his oratorical prowess would also be difficult to match. 

The governor's zeal and passion to change the narrative about the state has stood him out. Today, Bayelsa's story is intertwined with that of a man who bestrode the state like a colossus; not only transforming it but equally changing the governance culture. In every facet of the state, the Dickson imprint is indelible. The touch of the Ofurumapepe (the Great White Shark) can be felt even beyond the shores of the Jerusalem of the Ijaw Nation.

On November 16, 2019, Dickson's successor would be elected, according to the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The expectation is that his Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) would again produce the next occupant of the iconic Governor's Office he built. This expectation is consistent with the fact that the PDP had won every governorship election in the state since 1999 when the country returned to democratic rule. 

The governor's sterling performance in office has made it even more difficult for any other political party to think about staging an upset in the November poll. This is regardless of the pretensions of the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirants, namely Chief Timipre Sylva (a former PDP governor of the state), and the immediate past Minister of State for Agriculture, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri. The latter was also a PDP state and federal legislator. 

Already a titanic battle is brewing in the APC over the ambition of both aspirants. Interestingly, the duo, who were appointees of President Muhammadu Buhari, could not attract any significant project to the state throughout the president's first term of four years. 

So, their ambition has a huge question mark hanging over it. With what are they going to campaign? Some others are asking what Sylva forgot in the Government House that he wants to reclaim when his five years as governor were marked by waste, lack of focus and below par performance.

In any case, the PDP governorship ticket appears more attractive. At the last count, no fewer than 15 individuals are said to have indicated interest to succeed the current occupant. 

The list includes a former Secretary to the State Government (SSG), retired federal Permanent Secretary and envoy, Ambassador Godknows Boladei Igali, a former Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Chief Ndutimi Alaibe, a philanthropist and businessman, Chief Reuben Okoya, the current SSG, Mr. Kemela Okara, a lawyer and the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria governorship candidate in 2012 as well as the Chairman, Bayelsa State Board of Internal Revenue, Dr. Nimibofa Ayawei.

Others are the immediate past Director-General, Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission, Dr. Franklin Osaisai, an oil magnate, Mr. Keniebi Okoko, a former chairman of the state PDP, Deacon James Dugo, Chief Great Joshua Maciver, a retired Permanent Secretary, ex-Director of Protocol and currently chairman of the state Land Use Allocation Committee, Mr. Joseph Akedesuo among others.

Several considerations will determine who eventually picks the single ticket. Chief among which is the input of the governor, who is the undisputed leader of the party in the state. Dickson has a firm and unshakable grip on the party with his influence and significance further boosted as chairman of the PDP Governors Forum. So his preference and support for any aspirant definitely carry a lot of weight.

Interestingly, this also comes with a burden, which he recognises. But he has elected to be a team player. He said he would toe the path of consulting other critical stakeholders in the state and the party, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, who he calls "my elder brother and leader." 

According to him, the PDP candidate would not be the product of an imposition but rather would emerge through the right process of consensus and consultation.

His words: "I led the party (PDP) to victory against a vicious opposition. I can lead PDP to victory again. I have done it repeatedly.

"In the primary election, there will be no form of manipulation. People talking about manipulation are anticipating that they should be imposed. I am not going to impose any of them. Any of them who feels he has the capacity and experience should make his case before the party and the people of Bayelsa.

"I hope the right person with competence and capacity emerges to build on the foundation my team and I have laid over the past seven years plus. I have no doubt that the right person would emerge with my support." 

The Jonathan factor is also being touted by those who think the former President can still pull the required strings to get his choice candidate to scale the hurdle. But at the moment, this could be a far-fetched expectation. Feelers within the state PDP indicate that the support and endorsement of the former president alone might no longer carry the expected weight. Jonathan's taciturnity and aloofness towards affairs of the party in the state has largely whittled down his influence. In recent months, even his loyalty to the PDP and that of his foot soldiers has been called to question.

This insinuation was fuelled by the tacit support for candidates of the APC and the Action Democratic Congress (ADC) by his henchmen during the last general election. Most of his henchmen were said to have engaged in anti-party activities, particularly in his Ogbia local government area. As a consequence, aspirants like Alaibe and even Okoya, who are perceived to be banking on the Jonathan factor, could be left with the short end of the stick.

Another topical but contentious issue is that of the zone that would produce the PDP candidate. The governorship slot has gone round the three senatorial districts at different times in the last 20 years under the PDP. The late Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, an indigene of Amassoma community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, took the Bayelsa Central slot as the first elected governor of the state from 1999 to 2005. 

Bayelsa East has been more fortunate to produce two governors. Dr. Jonathan completed Alamieyeseigha's tenure in 2007 and had picked the governorship ticket to start his own tenure before he was nominated as the late President Umaru Yar'Adua's running mate and eventually became Vice President. He is from Otuoke community in Ogbia Local Government Area. Sylva (from the same zone), an indigene of Okpoama in Brass Local Government Area, was then handed the PDP ticket and was governor from 2007 to 2012.

Dickson, from Toru-Orua in Sagbama Local Government Area under Bayelsa West, stepped in in February 2012. 

So which zone would be the next beneficiary? Many clamour that the fresh rotation should begin with Bayelsa Central having produced the first civilian governor in Alamieyeseigha but who didn't complete his tenure. This agitation and expectation has resulted in a high number of aspirants from the zone indicating interest in the PDP ticket.

Two related political events might however scuttle the aspiration of some of the contenders from the zone. On June 6, 2019, Hon. Tonye Isenah was elected Speaker of the sixth session of the Bayelsa House of Assembly. He is a third term member representing Kolokuma/Opokuma Constituency 1. Kolokuma/Opokuma local government area is under the Central Zone.

On February 23, 2019, Douye Diri (then member representing Yenagoa/Kolokuma/Opokuma Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives) was elected senator representing the Central Senatorial District. He also hails from Kolokuma/Opokuma local government area. 

What is significant about these two events is that for the first time in the political history of the state, Kolokuma/Opokuma has produced the speaker of the assembly as well as the senator representing the zone at the same time.

This has however thrown up a fresh dynamics. Would the central zone and particularly Kolokuma/Opokuma still be justified to seek the governorship ticket of the party having produced the speaker and a senator? Would Bayelsa East in particular not feel shortchanged and alienated if the governorship eludes the zone? How would Bayelsa West take the political recalibration despite having the governorship slot for eight years?

Importantly, what happens to the aspiration of the governorship aspirants from the central zone? The case of a serial contender like Alaibe, who is also from Kolokuma/Opokuma council, appears quite instructive. He is believed to have returned to the PDP with his eyes solely fixed on the governorship ticket. Would his aspiration be aborted or would he pursue it on another platform if the PDP door is again shut against him?

A political analyst described the election of Diri and Isenah as the masterstroke of highwire politics. The perceived frontrunners might have lost out even before the real contest began.

Regardless of the permutations, many Bayelsans are of the view that Dickson's successor should be a focused politician or technocrat with a clear Ijawcentric agenda. The outgoing governor has so far left no one in doubt about his desire to promote the Ijaw culture, tradition and renaissance. He wholly epitomised it in his dress sense, which always stood him out as a proud Ijaw ambassador.

The governorship cap might also not fit those without any business interest or key stake in the state. Bayelsans are tired of mercenary politicians that appear only during election seasons. They beat a fast retreat once they are unable to achieve their aspiration and reappear the next election cycle to hoodwink the people again. Such politicians do not feel the pulse of the people they seek to represent or govern.

In this category are the itinerant politicians who change parties at the drop of a hat. They do not build their parties. Rather they are opportunists. Their singular aim is to occupy the Creek Haven but do not invest in the youths or women in the state.

Bayelsa does not also need anyone who thinks the governorship is his birthright. Such aspirants surreptitiously sponsor media campaigns to run down every sitting administration. If they are not the ones in the saddle, any other person is not good enough.

The man Bayelsa needs must have a clear blueprint on how to develop the state with well-articulated short, medium and long term goals and projection. Somebody who will create the required environment for jobs and positive engagement of the youths. 

Somebody who will further the exceptional legacies of the Dickson administration and not seek to destroy them. A team player and not a wheeler-dealer politician who will mortgage the state's interest on the altar of personal aggrandisement.

The state no longer needs a governor that does not have a zero-tolerance to violent politics or cultism. Enough of the bloodshed arising from cult and gang rivalries. The streets of Yenagoa must not be allowed to be watered any longer with the blood of the youths whose patrons are politicians. 


Ebiegberi, a public affairs analyst and political commentator, writes from Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

Kolo Kyari Appointed As The New Group Managing Director Of NNPC


… New Appointees to Work with Current Office Holders till 7th July 2019
President Muhammadu Buhari has appointed Mr. Mele Kolo Kyari as the new Group Managing Director of the National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).
A release today in Abuja by the NNPC Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs, Mr. Ndu Ughamadu, stated that President Buhari also appointed alongside Kyari, seven new Chief Operating Officers.
Until his new appointment, Kyari, a geologist, was Group General Manager, Crude Oil Marketing Division of NNPC and also doubled, since 13th May, 2018, as Nigeria’s National Representative to the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, OPEC.
President Buhari has directed that the New GMD and the newly appointed Chief Operating Officers work with the current occupiers of the various offices till 7th July, 2019 towards a smooth transition on 8th July 2019 when their appointments would take effect to ensure a smooth transition. However, the appointment of Mr. Farouk Garba Said (North West), who is replacing a retiring Chief Operating Officer, is effective from 28th June, 2019.
The newly appointed Chief Operating Officers are:
1.    Mr. Roland Onoriode Ewubare (South-South) – Chief Operating Officer, Upstream
2.    Engr. Mustapha Yinusa Yakubu (North Central) – Chief Operating Officer Refining and Petrochemicals
3.    Engr. Yusuf Usman (North East) – Chief Operating Officer, Gas and Power
4.    Ms. Lawrencia Nwadiabuwa Ndupu (South East), Chief Operating Officer Ventures
5.    Mr. Umar Isa Ajiya (North West) – Chief Financial Officer
6.    Engr. Adeyemi Adetunji (South West) – Chief Operating Officer, Downstream and
7.    Mr. Farouk Garba Said (North West) – Chief Operating Officer, Corporate Services.
Ughamadu stated in the release that NNPC Group Managing Director, Dr. Maikanti Baru, had congratulated the new appointees.
Mallam Kyari is a quintessential crude oil marketer with prerequisite certification and outfield pedigree in Petroleum Economics and crude oil and gas trading.
In the last 27 years he had traversed the entire value chain of the Petroleum Industry, with exceptional records of performance.
Under his watch, the Crude Oil Marketing Division has recorded noticeable transformation in the management and sales of the various Nigeria’s crude oil grades via an infusion of transparency and automation of the processes, the release by the NNPC spokesperson, stated.
Kyari would be the 19th Group Managing Director of the National Oil Company.

Wednesday 19 June 2019

Gov Dickson Appoints New Acting Chairman Of BYSIEC



...Charges Commission To Conduct Free, Fair, Peaceful LG Election

Bayelsa State Governor, the Honourable Seriake Dickson, has appointed Hon. Remember Ogbe as Acting Chairman of the Bayelsa State Independent Electoral Commission (BYSIEC.

The Governor  charged members of the commission to conduct free, fair and peaceful local government poll that would be acceptable to all.

A statement by his Special Adviser on Media Relations, Mr Fidelis Soriwei quoted the governor to have given the charge during the swearing in ceremony of two members of the State Independent Electoral Commission on Tuesday in Yenagoa.

The new members are, Hon. Charles Emmanuel, a former member of the State House of Assembly representing Brass Constituency One and Barr. Perebigha Ajoko.

Governor Dickson said the local government election scheduled to hold in September this year should be conducted in a manner that would reflect the wishes of the electorate.

Governor Dickson noted that Hon. Ogbe was appointed acting chairman of the Commission until a decision is taken  on the issue of the nomination of the chairman designate of the BYSIEC.

He expressed confidence in the capability of the new members of the Commission to effectively oversee the affairs of the commission given their track record in their previous assignments.

Governor Dickson also urged political parties and their candidates to abide by the outcome of the election.

He said, “I congratulate the two members of the commission who have been sworn in today. You are appointed to fill in vacancies that emanated from the resignation of some members. You are selected because of your capacity and experience.

“I urge you to do what is right and fair and carry out your duties in a manner that would engender trust and confidence. You should be prepared to conduct free, fair and credible elections.

“I have listened to some of the concerns expressed on the position of the Chairman designate. That is why he is not taking his office. 

I call on the commission to carry out their duties in a way that would engender confidence. Let the elections be free and fair, and let the wishes of Bayelsans be respect. We are giving you free hand and  every party should abide by the outcome of the elections.

'Serve With The Fear Of God', Masari Tasks New Appointees



Governor Aminu Bello Masari of Katsina State has tasked members of his new cabinet to exhibit diligence and commitment in delivering services to the people of the state.

According to a report by the Katsina Media and Publicity, Masari made the call while swearing-in the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Mustafa Muhammad Inuwa, and seven newly appointed Permanent Secretaries.

The governor tasked the new appointees to abide by the oath of office to which they have sworn and to discharge their duties with the fear of God.

He also tasked them to identify the peculiar needs of communities in the state and fashion out ways to provide these needs within the limited resources available to the state.

The Permanent Secretaries that were sworn-in include Alhaji Muntari Lawal as Permanent Secretary Government House, Alhaji Suleiman Yakubu Safana as Permanent Secretary at the Office of the SGS, and Hajiya Halima Lawal as Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education.

Others are Alhaji Hafizu Iliyasu, Alhaji Muntari Danladi, Alhaji Mustafa Kabir and Alhaji Sani Isyaku Masari.