Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt聽

A real estate strategist and Chief of Executive Officer of Mayor of Housing Limited, My-ACE China, has appealed to the Rivers State government to protect businesses in the State paying taxes. 

China asked the state government to prioritise the protection of companies paying tax from violent and fraudulent revenue collectors. 

The real estate strategist spoke at a breakfast meeting jointly organised by 糖心视频Day Media Limited in collaboration with Rivers Internal Revenue Service (RIRS), in Port Harcourt.

China, who gave other things government can do to encourage voluntary tax compliance in the state said businesses that pay taxes want to be free from multiple tax agents and violent tax collectors. 

China stressed that a fraud-free tax collection system seems to emerge in Rivers State, but said this can be better if a one-stop-tax centre is created. 

He said the sanity being brought into tax collection arena would help Rivers State witness fraud-free and violence-free tax system that would boost businesses and investments. 

He suggested three things businesses want to see in the state in connection with tax collection including protecting the tax paying businesses, tax incentives, and harmonisation to make paying taxes easier and less bitter. 

He said he could see an intent of ridding the state of these hoodlums by ensuring that there’s an emergency number business people can call when these people harass them and an intent to not only arrest these people but to prosecute them. 

He also called for land sanitisation with digital systems like Abuja did to make land acquisition and development seamless. 

He commended the Rivers Internal Revenue Service led by the Executive Chairman, Israel Egbunefu, for bringing sanity in tax collection and for partnering 糖心视频Day to begin tax education and engagement series with the private sector in the state. 

In his speech, the RIRS boss, Egbunefu, outlined measures put in place to end tax touting, saying the system is being digitised. 

A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has granted an interlocutory injunction restraining a former Abia State Commissioner for Information, Barr. Eze Chikamnayo, from making or publishing allegedly defamatory comments against Governor Alex Chioma Otti, pending the determination of a 鈧�100bn defamation suit filed by the governor.

Justice J.E. Obanor, in a ruling delivered on Thursday, ordered Chikamnayo to desist from 鈥渨riting, authoring, sharing, circulating, broadcasting, voicing, forwarding and/or syndicating鈥� any defamatory content against the claimant on his Facebook wall, Iyierioba Chikamnayo, or on any other social or digital media platforms, including X, Instagram, Telegram, WhatsApp and TikTok, as well as traditional media such as newspapers, radio and television, pending the determination of the substantive suit.

The judge stated: 鈥淗aving carefully considered the application and all the processes before the Court, and there being no process challenging same, I am satisfied as to the need to grant the interlocutory order sought. Motion No. M/15807/2025 is hereby granted, and the orders are accordingly made as prayed, pending the determination of the substantive suit.鈥�

The court adjourned the matter to January 19, 2026, for hearing.

The ruling followed a motion on notice filed by Governor Otti鈥檚 legal team, led by Dr Sonny Ajala, SAN, accusing Chikamnayo of continuing to publish offensive materials against the governor despite being served with court processes on October 17, 2025.

According to court documents, Chikamnayo allegedly published a series of posts on his Facebook page between October 17 and October 31, 2025, after being served with the originating processes in the suit. Some of the posts allegedly described the governor in derogatory terms.

In an affidavit in support of the motion, deposed to by Ifeanyi Michael Agbo, practice manager at Deeplaw Associates, the governor鈥檚 legal team stated that the defendant, described as a legal practitioner, continued to publish offensive materials against the claimant despite being aware of the pending lawsuit.

The affidavit further alleged that the publications were intended to cause reputational damage and incite public hostility against the governor.

In a written address accompanying the motion, Otti鈥檚 counsel argued that the continued publications violated the doctrine of sub judice, which prohibits actions or statements capable of prejudicing matters pending before a court.

Dr Ajala also submitted that the conduct complained of contravened Rule 30 of the Rules of Professional Conduct for Legal Practitioners 2023, which enjoins lawyers to refrain from acts that may obstruct or adversely affect the administration of justice.

The substantive suit, filed on October 8, 2025, followed a demand letter dated October 2, 2025, requesting a retraction of the alleged defamatory publications, which the defendant allegedly failed to comply with within the stipulated seven days.

In the suit, Governor Otti is seeking a declaration that his reputation, goodwill and standing have been gravely injured by the alleged false and malicious publications. He is also claiming 鈧�100bn as damages for reputational injury, psychological and emotional trauma.

The governor is further asking the court to compel the defendant to tender an unreserved apology to be published on his Facebook page and in selected national newspapers, as well as an order of perpetual injunction restraining further defamatory publications and 鈧�250m as cost of the action.

Earlier, on October 16, 2025, Justice Obanor had granted leave to serve court processes on Chikamnayo through substituted means, including his Facebook wall and phone and WhatsApp number, after the court was informed that those were the channels through which he could be reached.

The defendant was ordered to enter an appearance within 30 days of service or risk judgment being entered in his absence.

ENUGU, September 21, 2025 – In a resounding call for youth empowerment, stakeholders, traditional rulers, lawmakers, and community leaders across the South-East have urged young people in the region to seize opportunities in the aviation sector as a pathway to reduce unemployment, foster innovation, and drive regional development. The message came during the South-East Aviation Summit and Face of Eastwing 2025 Competition, organized by the Eastwing Aviation Institute, Enugu, through its Eastwing Youth Foundation.

The event, held on Saturday in Enugu, was not only a platform to spotlight aviation鈥檚 transformative potential for Nigeria鈥檚 youth but also an occasion to celebrate emerging talent, with 18-year-old Ifechukwu Uyammadu unveiled as the winner of Face of Eastwing 2025. The teenager鈥檚 victory was crowned with a full scholarship to study any aviation course of his choice at the institute, symbolizing a new era of opportunity for the next generation.

Aviation as a Tool for Youth Empowerment

Declaring the summit open, the Chairman of Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Samuel Asadu, emphasized that the South-East should not lag in aviation training and careers. He described aviation as a field where youths from other regions were already excelling and called on governments, private investors, and philanthropists in the South-East to sponsor young people into the industry.

Asadu commended the founder of Eastwing Aviation Institute, Dr. Christopher Edeh, for establishing the school in Enugu, noting that it placed world-class aviation training within the reach of South-East youths. According to him, the summit was a “game-changing event,” showing that what could be found in major cities across the world was now available in the region.

Backing this view, the Deputy Provost of Eastwing Aviation Institute, Dr. Segun Babalola, warned that the South-East risked falling behind if its youths failed to key into aviation. He expressed concern that fewer than 10 per cent of Igbo youths had shown interest in the industry, compared with other regions where large numbers were already trained and employed in aviation.

Babalola explained that aviation had evolved far beyond flight operations, now touching research, technology, logistics, and global trade. He stressed that societies without human development in aviation would find it difficult to remain competitive on the world stage.

Political Commitment to Youth Development

One of the key voices at the summit was Mr. Raymond Okey Ugwu, Chairman of the House Committee on Youths in the Enugu State House of Assembly, who used the platform to rally young people in the South-East to embrace aviation. Ugwu argued that aviation held the promise of massive job creation, technological advancement, and sustainable development for the region if properly harnessed.

Ugwu, who pledged legislative backing for youth-focused aviation training, noted that the summit was a rare opportunity for Igbo youths to reimagine their future. He stressed that the state assembly would continue to partner with institutions like Eastwing to ensure more scholarships, skill-acquisition programs, and policy frameworks that encourage private-sector participation in youth training.

鈥淏y equipping our young people with aviation skills, we are not only addressing unemployment but also positioning the South-East to become a hub for innovation and global competitiveness. The aviation industry is expanding, and our youth must be at the forefront of that growth. This is why we, as lawmakers, will continue to push for policies and partnerships that give our young people access to this golden opportunity,鈥� Ugwu said.

Local Leaders Align with the Vision

The summit also drew commitments from local government leaders. The Chairman of Enugu East Local Government Council, Engr. Beloved-Dan Anike represented by his deputy Engr Kingsley Obi Anike, announced that his administration would partner with the institute to train youths from his area, describing human capital development as a top priority.

Similarly, the Traditional Ruler of Umuisu Autonomous Community, Igwe Sunday Nwobodo, who was honored with a leadership award during the event, urged young people to embrace the institute鈥檚 soft skills training in aviation. Nwobodo pledged to continue supporting initiatives that empower youths and applauded Eastwing for setting the pace in private-sector-driven aviation education in the South-East.

Aviation Is About People, Not Just Machines

In his keynote address, Dr. Christopher Edeh, founder of Eastwing Aviation Institute, explained that aviation was not merely about machines, engines, or infrastructure but about people鈥攖heir dreams, resilience, and pursuit of excellence. He reminded the audience that every pilot, engineer, air traffic controller, and aviation administrator once began as a dreamer, and that nurturing those dreams was key to regional development.

Edeh described Eastwing as a vision born out of determination, partnership, and faith in human capacity building. Today, he said, the institution stands as the only privately-owned aviation training hub in the South-East, a milestone that should inspire confidence in young people and attract greater support from the public and private sectors.

鈥淗uman development is the true engine that propels aviation forward. By investing in our youths, we are building the wings of collective progress, not only for Enugu State but for the entire South-East. Aviation has a place for everyone, and this institute is determined to help our young people find their space in this global industry,鈥� Edeh remarked.

Face of Eastwing 2025: A New Star Emerges

The emotional highlight of the evening was the unveiling of 18-year-old Ifechukwu Uyammadu as the winner of the Face of Eastwing 2025 Competition. Beaming with excitement, Uyammadu described his win as both an honor and a responsibility to inspire other young people in the region.

According to him, winning the competition underscored the importance of resilience, self-belief, and hard work. 鈥淭his is more than just a crown; it is an opportunity to show that young people from the South-East can dream big and achieve in fields that were once thought to be out of reach. With the scholarship I have been awarded, I intend to pursue my passion in aviation and become a role model for others who aspire to take this path,鈥� Uyammadu said.

His victory was greeted with cheers and admiration, as participants and dignitaries hailed the competition for blending youth empowerment with the glitz of fashion, culture, and talent display.

Awards, Magazine Launch, and Cultural Performances

Beyond speeches and competitions, the summit featured other memorable moments. The Eastwing Aviation Institute Magazine was launched, serving as a new platform to document aviation trends, youth success stories, and the progress of the institute. Several leadership awards were presented to individuals and organizations that had contributed to youth development and aviation growth.

The evening also included cultural dances, music, and networking sessions, showcasing the region鈥檚 rich heritage while connecting traditional values with modern aspirations in aviation and education.

A Call to Action for South-East Youths

As the summit drew to a close, the consensus among stakeholders was clear: the South-East must not be left behind in the rapidly expanding aviation industry. The call was not only for young people to pursue aviation-related training but also to governments, traditional institutions, philanthropists, and private-sector players to provide the necessary support.

Ugwu鈥檚 charge to the youths captured the spirit of the event. By embracing aviation, he argued, Igbo youths would not only secure meaningful employment but also contribute to building a self-reliant, globally competitive South-East. Uyammadu鈥檚 story, on the other hand, served as a living testament to the opportunities aviation and Eastwing Aviation Institute could offer.

With aviation projected as one of the fastest-growing industries globally, the summit reaffirmed the importance of aviation training in Nigeria, particularly in the South-East. Stakeholders believe that the Eastwing Aviation Institute is positioned to become a regional hub, nurturing talent and preparing the next generation of pilots, engineers, and innovators.

The message to South-East youths was unmistakable: aviation is no longer a distant dream – it is a present reality, and the time to seize it is now.

Rivers State people are expectant, ready to welcome back the suspended democratic government, after the expiration of the six-month emergency rule imposed on the state on September 18, 2025. Blessing Ibunge writes

President Bola Tinubu on March 18, 2025 declared a State of Emergency in Rivers State, following what he described as instability in the functioning of the State government as a result of conflict between the state Executive and Legislative arms. Announcing the emergency rule in a nationwide broadcast, President Tinubu suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, the state deputy governor, Prof Ngozi Odu and State House of Assembly members led by the Speaker, Hon Martins Amaewhule.

The six-month emergency rule will expire on Thursday, while Rivers people and Nigerians are anxiously awaiting how the elected democratic government would continue to pilot the affairs of the State, after the change in administration, including the recently conducted local government council elections supervised by the Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd).

For about six months in administrative government, Rivers State may have been calm politically, but the fact remains that things will no longer be as usual once the President revokes the emergency rule.

Expectations of Governor Fubara鈥檚 loyalists during the state saga, and emergency rule were not met, some of the supporters may have expressed disappointment after the supposed sacrifice backing the governor during the period of misunderstanding with his godfather, the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. Though the governor initially put up a fight for freedom of leadership, the Minister with the current development has proven to be in charge of the State, irrespective of President Tinubu鈥檚 involvement in settling the feud between the two groups.

What is expected of  Fubara upon return to office

At the conclusion of the recent LGA elections in the state, where the All Progressives Congress won 20 out of the 23 chairmanship seats in a Peoples Democratic Party controlled State, the FCT Minister and a PDP member, Mr. Nyesom Wike, hinted that with the recent successful conduct of the elections in the state, the coast was clear for the return of Fubara and the state lawmakers to power upon the expiration of the state of emergency.

Shortly after, the State Administrator, Ibas, also said he has successfully restored the democratic governance of Rivers State at the grassroots level. According to him, the peaceful conduct of the polls and the subsequent swearing-in of democratically elected Chairmen and Councillors across all 23 LGAs marked the direct fulfillment of the presidential directive issued to him on March 18, 2025.

His words: 鈥淢r. President鈥檚 mandate to me was clear: to stabilize the state, create an enabling environment for the re-establishment of its institutions, and return Rivers State back to full democratic governance. With the successful conduct and swearing-in of local government chairmen and their councils, I believe we have decisively achieved the mandate that we were given鈥�.

The local government election was not really competitive, as the candidates to fill the positions were alleged to have been selected, even before the election was conducted.

Again, during a thanksgiving service last Sunday, ahead of his exit from office, the Administrator appealed to Rivers people, especially the politicians to sheath their sword, rise above bitterness, rivalry and self -interest to pursue the greater good of the state. He noted that it was part of official events marking the state鈥檚 transition back to democratic governance.

鈥淏y God鈥檚 grace, and with the support of Mr. President and all of you, we have walked through those difficult days together. The survival and relative stability we enjoy today is a testimony of God鈥檚 faithfulness.

鈥淭he seeds of reconciliation have been planted. These seeds need your deliberate nurture to take roots. Our collective sacrifices and commitment to peace is what we must all strive to guide at this time. Truly it was God who kept Rivers State. This service is a solemn testimony of God鈥檚 faithfulness to Rivers State.  We have survived storms political, social, economic, and through it all, God has been faithful鈥�, the Administrator stated.

Not knowing how the governor would run his remaining less than two years in office, Rivers State people, including politicians, civil society groups, are however demanding accountability in how the resources of the State were spent in the last six months. While some that spoke with 糖心视频 wanted the governor to continue with the peace already established, some alleged that the purpose of the suspension of democratic rule was targeted at the state resources.

Chairman of the Rivers State Civil Society Organisation, Enefaa Georgewill, who insisted that the emergency rule was illegal, said it is expected that the governor once back to office should investigate the financial record of the state.

鈥淚t is our position that the elected governor will be returned on September 18. We will be expecting him to immediately investigate the financial record of Rivers State within these six months.

鈥淎 high-level powered committee should be set up to give us a run through of the resources of Rivers State because we had elected the governor, and unfortunately a quasi-military succession was appointed. We expected that the person we had elected will make sure that he uses an independent panel to investigate how our resources have gone down within this period.

鈥淲e noticed that almost all the projects that were going on in the State simultaneously; the major roads, ring road which is the flash ship project of this administration, and several other projects like the Civil Servants quarters for low-income earners and so many other projects all stopped. Meanwhile, the resources for both internally generated and from internal sources like the federal government kept on coming. We suspect that there will be financial misappropriation, even if the so-called House of Assembly has not been completed.

鈥淲e equally want the governor to stand firm and represent Rivers people. For us to think that he is neither here nor there wouldn鈥檛 help the situation. As a governor, he should make sure that he carries everybody along鈥�, he stated.

On his part, a prominent chieftain of the APC in the state, Chief Eze Chukwuemka, who noted that going by the president鈥檚 declaration, the emergency will be ended on September 18, said 鈥淟et us just pray that the characters involved knowing how untrustworthy they are will honour this set date by lifting the atrocious State of emergency鈥�.

He alleged that the reasons for the declaration was to 鈥減lunder and loot the treasure of Rivers State; to humiliate the State and her people by taking over illegally the political structure(s) of the State.鈥�

The APC chief who spoke with our correspondent in Port Harcourt, said: 鈥淢ost importantly, the aim of the emergency rule was to ensure that Rivers State doesn鈥檛 progress ahead of Lagos State by destroying her economic base and the speed in which Governor Sim Fubara was driving the State progressively. A son of Rivers State is used as a tool to accomplish these illegalities and wickedness against the State. The future will determine if the people of Rivers State accept these attempts to undermine the progress of the State by doing their best to reclaim the State from these undemocratic and unprincipled fellows.

鈥淚magine a situation where the multinationals that harness the oil in the Niger Delta are headquartered in Lagos. All the benefits from the oil exploration viz- tax, employment etc, go to Lagos while the Niger Deltans suffer the exploitation. So, in order to firm-up the grip of Lagos on the huge oil revenue, there has to be perpetual destabilization of the Niger Delta region, particularly, Rivers State. This is so because they do not want Rivers State economy to compete with Lagos.

鈥淲hile he served as Governor, Rotimi Amaechi gave Lagos a serious chase, and Rivers was almost at par with Lagos in all spheres. Governor Fubara鈥檚 commitment to revive investment in infrastructure and build an enabling environment for businesses threatened Tinubu and Lagos. That is why the President didn鈥檛 think twice; didn鈥檛 look at the laws of the country; didn鈥檛 consider the dangers, the criticisms that may come with the unlawful suspension of the Governor. Fubara鈥檚 performance was a threat.

Eze regretted that 鈥淎ll through the six months period that the Administrator held sway, the wheel of progress was grounded. Everything came to a halt. No project was initiated. None was completed. None proceeded beyond the level it was when the Governor was unlawfully suspended. And no one is asking questions on the whereabouts of Rivers鈥� money. The state money was looted dry. That was the mandated鈥�.

He wondered 鈥淗ow can a man who said he was sent to make peace turn around to support a faction in the crisis? Giving them appointments here and there even when such indulgences clearly offend extant laws. Conducting local council elections without having the powers to do so. It鈥檚 unfortunate we find ourselves here鈥�.

Another CSO, Defense for Human Rights and Democracy (DHRD), is demanding detailed account of stewardship from the out- going  Administration in the State. In a statement signed by the National Chairman of the group, Clifford Solomon, said Ibas should use the remaining days left to give a blow-to-blow account of what was received from the Federal Allocation, Internally Generated Revenue and other sundry funds that come to the  state and how it was expended. 鈥淚t is also very imperative for the Sole Administrator to tell Rivers people projects executed, completed, ongoing and commissioned in the six months of his reign鈥�.

As Governor Fubara returns to office, the questions remain, will he mend fences and build alliance with his political rivals, especially the House Assembly members?

Is he going to sustain the good relationship he had with his supporters during the turbulent period, especially now that he is in good terms with his godfather, Wike? Is he also going to reconstitute the appointments and heads of parastatals made by the administrator?

A renowned expert in land disputes, Dr. Mpakaboari Jack, has sounded a warning over the dangers of land grabbing, urging prospective land buyers in Rivers State to conduct thorough research before making purchases. 

Dr. Jack, who had garnered experience in land dispute working with now Renaissance Africa Energy Company, made this call in his recently released book, “Navigating Land Disputes”.

According to Dr. Jack, many individuals and organizations fall victim to land disputes due to lack of proper research and due diligence. He advised potential land buyers to visit the Ministry of Land to verify the ownership and status of the land before making any payments.

“It is a known fact that people sell lands to different persons at different times unknown to them,” Dr. Jack said. “Others buy land that is meant for pipeline, oil and gas infrastructures without understanding the dangers involved.”

Dr. Jack’s book offers practical suggestions on how to navigate land disputes, including the need for patience and understanding of the academic, environmental, and work aspects of land ownership. 

He also called on government leaders to consider the indigenous owners of land and compensate them adequately.

“The Governor signs the Certificate of Occupancy (CofO), but the land is an inheritance, people inherited the land from their forebears,” Dr. Jack said. “Suddenly, they are letting go because the Land Use Act said the Governor is the owner. It is a problem.”

The book has received commendation from many people especially,  Dr. Igo Weli, General Manager of Relations and Sustainable Development for Renaissance Africa Energy Company. 

According to him, “Land is critical to development, growth, and achievement of life, but sadly, it is also a source of conflict,” Dr. Weli said. “If we can have less land disputes all over the world, it will make for a better life for all of us.”

Dr. Weli noted that land disputes can be damaging to businesses, diverting time and resources away from productive activities. He hopes that Dr. Jack’s book will provide a master key to avoiding land disputes and creating more value for everyone.

Meanwhile, Professor. Kialee Nyiayaana, a reviewer of the book, noted that it offers a detailed examination of the historical, cultural, and legal dimensions of land disputes in Nigeria. 

He added that the book highlights the impact of colonial legislation and the Land Use Act of 1978 on land rights and ownership in Nigeria.

“The book also explores customary and legal methods of land dispute resolution, emphasizing the importance of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms in managing land conflicts,” he said.

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The communities surrounding the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) in Abia, Bayelsa, Imo, and Rivers States have appealed to the Presidency and relevant federal agencies to not only renew the surveillance contract with Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) for oil and gas facilities in their regions, but also to broaden its operational scope.

PINL is tasked with ensuring the security of the Trans Niger Pipeline and related oil and gas infrastructure within the Eastern Corridor.

During a press conference held in Port Harcourt yesterday, organized by the 鈥楶ipeline Host Ethnic Nationality Leaders of the Eastern Corridor,鈥� stakeholders emphasized that PINL has significantly contributed to the realization of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly within the Eastern corridor and the broader Niger Delta area.

Famous Daunemigha, representing the stakeholders, highlighted that since its establishment, Pipeline Infrastructure has actively engaged with community leaders, including traditional rulers, chiefs, Community Development Committee (CDC) chairs, youth, and women leaders.

He noted that through these community leaders, who receive monthly stipends, the surveillance firm is integral to enhancing community security and protecting the TNP. He attributed the positive outcomes to the communities鈥� sense of ownership over the pipeline.

Daunemigha introduced representatives from various ethnic groups such as the Ijaw, Ekpeye, Ikwerre, Eleme, Ogoni, Andoni, Bonny, Egbema, Ukwa, and Oguta, stating their satisfaction with PINL鈥檚 operations across their respective areas.

He mentioned that PINL’s services have led to a significant increase in crude oil production in the region. Since PINL began operations, crude oil delivery through the TNP, which had been at zero percent due to rampant theft and illegal refining, has now nearly reached 100%, thanks to a combination of strategic approaches and collaboration with Government Security Agencies.

On the subject of Corporate Social Responsibility, Daunemigha described PINL as a valuable contributor to community investments in social and human capital. He highlighted that while addressing the media, various forms of community empowerment were being implemented.

In 2024 alone, PINL contributed hundreds of millions of naira in relief materials to communities affected by the 2022 and 2023 floods in Bayelsa and Rivers States. They also provided Christmas food packages that supported thousands of families during difficult times.

Moreover, many individuals have gained from skills training, educational scholarships, and other supportive initiatives. Through its inclusive and proactive approach, PINL has significantly aided in resolving longstanding leadership and community disputes, allowing previously marginalized groups to integrate into its operational framework.

Acknowledging the achievements made thus far, the group called for PINL to continue and enhance its initiatives, especially with regard to monthly stakeholder engagements and inclusive community development strategies.

Mr. Victor Udoh, the Convener of the Niger Delta Progressive Alliance, also urged for a direct government policy to continue supporting the contract with Pipeline Infrastructure.

Udoh pointed out, 鈥淭he constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria mandates that the Armed Forces protect critical infrastructure. Previous efforts, including the Civil Defence, were ineffective, leading to the decision that private companies like PINL should collaborate with the armed forces, which has proven beneficial for our communities.

He urged the government, under President Bola Tinubu鈥檚 leadership, to ensure that as long as Pipeline Infrastructure maintains its efficiency and dedication to the Niger Delta and Eastern corridor, there should be directives for the government structure within the NNDC and the National Security Adviser to not only retain PINL but also to grant it greater responsibilities, as we aspire for a functioning Niger Delta.鈥�

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt 

Paramount Ruler of Woji Community in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, HRH Emeka Ihunwo, has called for more scholarship awards for indigenes and residents of the community.

The monarch made the appeal while speaking with journalists at his palace, during the celebration of his 10th anniversary on the throne.

While acknowledging the support of some companies operating in the area, he said, 鈥渃urrently, one of the companies here is training our child in a private university. We want to have many lawyers and engineers in the near future. We are also in partnership with private schools in the community for our children’s education.鈥�

Ihunwo appealed to owners of private schools in Woji to award scholarships to children in the communities, because it was an agreement they entered with the Woji leadership.

Speaking on his experience in the past 10 years, Ihunwo said there are myriad of challenges while leading a people, but that at all times one has to keep an open mind and to his best.

鈥淲hen you are managing a whole community, even those who have eaten will be hungry. What do you do? The much you should be able to give to the needy.

To his subjects, he called for patience and urged them to serve and trust in God, saying  that all the communities have been touched one way or the other.

鈥淲e have 12 distinct villages that make up Woji. These 12 are intact. There is no part of the community we have not empowered. We have been able to empower persons from each of the villages, not only companies giving us food items, our people need to work, go to school.

鈥淯nfortunately, most of our young boys today are running away from education. We have tried our best, last month we gave cash support to our students, especially a law student, not from SPDC. We have trained youths in school who have finished the National Youth Service Corps鈥�, he noted.

Earlier, at the thanksgiving service held at St. Nicholas Anglican Church, Woji, the Bishop, Diocese of Evo, Rt. Rev. Innocent Ordu commended the monarch for his commitment to peace since his ascension to the throne. He said that the monarch鈥檚 reign has been marked by peace, stability and profound achievements which people of the various communities in Woji and strangers are happy with.

鈥淲e also thank you for creating the enabling environment for those residing in Woji to pursue their personal interest.

鈥淥ver the past 10 years, you have stood as a symbol of wisdom, stability and kindness,鈥� he said, adding that the monarch’s humility, openness and calmness has impacted positively on the Woji people and residents.

In a brief sermon, the cleric said “kings are called not just for the throne but to serve the people and do the work of God, not to take advantage of the people by exploiting them. We thank you for carrying these roles well.

鈥淲e are encouraged by all the courage you have shown so far to unite the community and for encouraging the young people of this community to go to school.鈥� 

Bishop Ordu called on the people of the area to continue to support the monarch to continue with his good works, saying, 鈥渓eadership is sweeter when it is collective, when all hands are on deck, when everybody contributes and do the right thing.鈥�

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt 

In a decisive shift away from credit-led SME financing, Woodhall Capital, under the leadershipof Mrs Moji Hunponu-Wusu, hosted a robust workshop on factoring during the Afreximbank Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Abuja. 

The event, co-hosted with NEXIM Bank and backed by SEWA Capital Limited, introduced over 200 stakeholders to the game-changing potential of receivables finance.

At the heart of the workshop was a simple but powerful proposition: unlocking liquidity without borrowing. 

In a market where SMEs often face working capital challenges due to delayed invoice settlements, factoring emerges as a transformative option that does not require physical collateral or affect ownership structure.

She said, 鈥淲e are not just discussing access to finance; we are redefining the terms,鈥� said Mrs Hunponu-Wusu in her keynote address. Factoring allows SMEs to monetize their cashflow pipeline without debt or dilution. That鈥檚 revolutionary in a liquidity-starved economy.鈥�

Participants were taken through the mechanics of recourse vs. non-recourse factoring, credit insurance layering, digital documentation, and the evolving role of financial service providers (FSPs) in providing onboarding and risk underwriting.

SMEs gained not only awareness but actionable tools, many were supported in understanding how to assign invoices, develop receivables ledgers, and meet anti-money laundering (AML) compliance for factoring participation. 

The inclusion of Mrs Angela Jide Jones, Managing Director of SEWA Capital, gave the event a practical lens. 

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The suspended Governor of Rivers State, Mr. Siminalayi Fubara, has promised not to abandon his supporters following his reconciliation with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.

The governor was sighted yesterday with Wike, the FCT minister鈥檚 uncle, at Elder Temple Omezurike Onuoha鈥檚 funeral service in Rumuepirikom in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area (LGA) of the state.

Shortly after the burial ceremony, Governor Fubara had a meeting with his supporters in Port Harcourt, where he declared that there is no sacrifice too big for peace, stability, and progress of Rivers State.

Speaking with his supporters under the aegis of Simplified Movement, Fubara reassured them that every step he has taken, including the recent reconciliation with his predecessor, Wike, was done with their collective interest in mind.

Fubara acknowledged the anxiety and disappointment felt by many of his loyalists following the peace deal, but insisted that difficult times call for difficult decisions.

Fubara also acknowledged the pivotal role Wike played in his emergence as governor, saying that the political history cannot be erased.

Addressing his supporters, he said: “I called for this meeting to address you formally, for you to have first-hand information. It’s not the one you are reading in the paper; it’s not the one you are seeing on social media or wherever you are now hearing from me.

“We have fought. I think, in my own assessment and in the assessment of anyone here who is genuine in this struggle, you will know that we have done what we need to do. At this point, if you want to be truthful to yourself, the only solution is peace. I did say that no price is too big for peace. I meant it, and I’m still ready to follow it to the end.

“Nobody can take away the role the FCT minister, Chief Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, played; that’s the truth. Yes, we might have our differences, but nobody here will say he doesn’t know the role he played. Nobody can wish away the risk he took. Yes, at one point we had our differences, and if today there’s a need for us to settle, please, anyone who genuinely believes in me should understand that it’s the right thing to do.”

The governor admitted that the new political realities may be painful for some to accept, especially for those who have stood firmly with him through the turbulence. However, he emphasised that the larger goal remains the peace and stability of Rivers State.

“At this point, I’ve met him and we have spoken. You can’t take away the fact that he鈥檚 hurt; he’s a human being. I also have my own share of pain.
“If we believe that we are in one family and our interest is to support the president, then what is the issue? If you say you are with us and you believe in me, this is the time for us to show it.”

Fubara also lamented the impact the political crisis has had on governance, pointing out that several development projects across the state have suffered delays.
He reminded his supporters that now is the time to prove their loyalty and trust in his leadership, even when immediate political rewards seem uncertain, assuring that he would not abandon them.

“I can’t abandon you people, that’s one thing I need to say here. This is the time for me to prove to you that I care for you, and I make my commitment here that, whatever the outcome, I will not abandon anyone. But the sacrifice that we are going to make for us to achieve this total peace is going to be heavy, and I want everybody to prepare for it.”

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt 

The Federal Government to launch investigations into the activities of a global shipping giant, the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) in the country.

The stakeholders under the auspices of the Citizens Whistleblowers Coalition (CWC) suggested that the shipping firm should be probed on two key areas of undermining the country’s judicial system and sabotaging the economy.

Speaking in Port Harcourt at the weekend, the coalition’s, Programme Investigation, Nafiu Ibrahim; Project Officer, Government Laiason, Ella Susan and Programme Officer, Socio-Economic Rights, Owhonda Nwakanma, said they were worried that MSC had devised a means to stop indigenous companies from litigating admiralty matter against it in Nigeria.

They recalled that in February following legal actions brought against MSC at the Federal High Court by the Interglobal Technologies over N49million demurrage, the company obtained an ex parte anti-suit injunction in a High Court in London.

They said: “The anti-suit injunction seeks to stop the Nigerian company from litigating an admiralty matter against MSC in Nigeria. MSC is basically asserting in London that they cannot be sued in Nigerian courts for infraction arising from shipping services rendered to Nigerians in Nigeria.

“In the action filed in London with Suit No: CL-2024-000700, MSC is alleging that there is an exclusive jurisdiction clause in their terms of engagement which gives the High Court in London the exclusive jurisdiction over shipping services rendered to Nigerians and Nigerian companies in Nigeria. 

“It is learned that this exclusive jurisdiction clause gives MSC the right to take Nigerians or Nigerian companies anywhere in the world to enforce a claim against them. However, Nigerians or Nigerian companies dissatisfied with MSC鈥� shipping services can only take MSC to the High Court in London. 

“The idea and insistence that Nigerians and Nigerian companies can only sue MSC in London for services rendered in Nigeria is a cause for concern. It is a spite on Nigeria鈥檚 sovereignty and a calculated attempt to undermine Nigerian laws and civil justice system”.

But the whistleblower said the Nigerian law is clear on the admiralty jurisdiction of the Federal High Court in admiralty matters connected with Nigeria adding that Section 20 of the Nigeria Admiralty Jurisdiction Act provides that parties cannot take away the jurisdiction of the Nigeria court to entertain an admiralty matter where the place of delivery is in Nigeria or any of the parties reside in Nigeria. 

They said: “This provision seeks to protect Nigerians when dealing with unreasonable shipping giants that would want to undermine the civil justice system in Nigeria. In this regard, the law preserves the jurisdiction of Nigeria courts in admiralty matters where the place of delivery is in Nigeria or where any of the parties reside in Nigeria. 

“It is only common sense for Nigerian court to exercise jurisdiction over shipping services rendered in Nigeria. It is not clear why MSC is asserting that the High Court in London should deal with a case based on an alleged exclusive jurisdiction clause which if exists has been rendered null and void by Nigeria law.

“We consider it our patriotic duty, to alert the Honourable Attorney General, the security agencies, the judiciary, other regulatory agencies, including the FIRS, the National Assembly among others of the dangers being posed to our country where a foreign multi national company, that derives over $2bn annual revenues from our country uses those revenues to undermine our legal system, and oppress Nigerians after collecting  excess demurrage costs, container deposits, delaying their cargoes for months without apologies, not putting out their conditions of carriage on their website against FCCPC Act”.

They asked the relevant authorities to probe the revenues declared by MSC to ascertain whether they were accurate and to determine if the company had been paying proper taxes.

They added: “MSC Shipping Nigeria, now seeks to further stop Nigerian importers from being able to access justice, by inputting an exclusive jurisdiction clause in carriage contracts making UK with its outrageous legal costs the only venue for litigation.This is inspite of a Nigerian law that makes any attempt to oust our court jurisdiction in Admiralty matters illegal, null and void- S 20 of the AJA”, they said.

“Honourable Attorney-General, and  our courts should rise in defence of our sovereignty and our laws by ensuring that MSC Is called to order and cautioned to stop these illegalities and oppressive tendencies, otherwise they should be stopped from doing business in Nigeria

“MSC鈥檚 shipping practices are often depicted by many as being oppressive and unfair to Nigerians especially as it relates to demurrage and detention charges. The insistence that aggrieved Nigerians must go to London to make known their grievances adds to MSC鈥檚 oppressive and unfair conducts. 

“MSC prides itself as the largest Container line worldwide, with over 200,000 employees and revenues in excess of 鈧�86 billion. However, a company no matter its size should have regard for the laws of the land where it generates revenue. 

“MSC鈥檚 total disregard and disdain for Nigerian law and its court system is appalling. This calls for a full-blown investigation into the activities and affairs of MSC in Nigeria including MSC鈥檚 compliance with its tax obligations. A company that is not willing to subject itself to Nigerian court system will not be willing to pay tax for profits derived from Nigeria.”

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt 

The Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON), has concluded a stakeholders sensitisation forum for the maritime and  manufacturing sectors in Rivers State.

During the sensitisation programme held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State capital, the agency observed that installation of weighbridge on Nigerian roads will prevent damages caused by overload trucks plying the roads.

In his remarks, the Director General of SON, Dr Ifeanyi Okeke, said the forum provided the platform for meaningful engagement between SON and key players in the maritime and manufacturing sectors who play vital roles in the economic engine of the Niger Delta region and the country at large.

Speaking on the theme of the forum, 鈥淎ligning 糖心视频 Practices with Nigeria鈥檚 Trade Policies for Sustainable Growth,鈥� Okeke said it underscores the need to harmonise operational realities on the ground with the overreaching goals of national trade policy, economic diversification, and sustainable development. In his presentation, the Head of the National Metrology Institute, SON, Dr Samuel Ayuba, emphasised the need for the installation of weighbridges on Nigerian roads to prevent damage caused by overloaded trucks.

According to Ayuba, roads are designed to carry specific loads, and exceeding these limits can lead to premature wear and tear.

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has urged the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) to adhere to the scheduled 30-day repair timeline for the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC).

This call followed the announcement by the NNPC via its Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, that the facility will undergo a planned maintenance shutdown.

Soneye, in the statement, disclosed that the scheduled maintenance and sustainability assessment will commence on May 24, 2025.

He stated that the company was “working closely with all relevant stakeholders, including the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), to ensure that the maintenance and assessment activities are carried out efficiently and transparently”.

Expressing concerns over the shutdown of the Old Port Harcourt Refinery, PETROAN’s National President, Billy Gillis-Harry, said the refinery’s shutdown for maintenance is expected, but the association wants the NNPC to adhere to the repair timeline to minimise disruptions to petroleum product supply.

PETROAN expressed the fear that the 30-day schedule might not be realistic due to usual bottlenecks, potentially leading to further delays and exacerbating supply challenges.

The association further expressed worries that delays in the old refinery’s 30-day rehabilitation schedule may worsen economic hardship for millions of Nigerians.

It, however, emphasised that the repair process must include the Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) blending unit, as the crude oil cracking process is of no value without it.

The group also demanded “that NNPC completes the repair before existing stocks run dry to prevent market monopoly and ensure a stable supply of petroleum products”.

It noted that completing the repair on time will help maintain competition in the market, benefiting consumers and the economy.

PETROAN further recommended that the Minister of Petroleum should set up a task force comprising all petroleum industry stakeholders to monitor the 30-day repairs and to brief Nigerians on the job progress every weekend to ensure transparency and accountability in achieving the repair schedule.

The petrol retailers added that payments to contractors handling the repairs be made promptly to avoid delays and ensure the project stays on track.

Meanwhile, an internal memo circulated in the refinery on the Area 5 plant shutdown, yesterday, warned staff not to interact with external people or give information to the media.

The letter also stated that as government workers, it is against the Labour Law to engage pressmen in interviews, adding that any defaulter will be severely disciplined.

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The incident,  it was gathered, occured in the early hours of yesterday, on a pipeline鈥檚 right of way operated by the company, which now operates the assets formerly owned by Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC)

An environmental group, the Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre (YEAC-Nigeria)  set the alarm, stressing that its volunteers in the area noticed and reported the incident on Monday, May 19, 2025.

The Executive Director, YEAC-Nigeria, Dumnamene Fyneface, told journalists in Port Harcourt that the volunteers observed that the incident was allegedly caused by third-party interference.

He said: 鈥淭he volunteers reported the latest crude oil spill to the Advocacy Centre, alleging that the spillage is caused by third-party interference, pending confirmation by the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) through a comprehensive joint investigation team鈥檚 visit to the spill site in Oshika community鈥�.

The Advocacy Centre however called on NOSDRA to carry out a timely joint investigation visit to the site and invoke relevant sections of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), 2021, to hold those responsible accountable and ensure the operator clamps the spill point to mitigate the impact of the crude oil spill on the flora and fauna in the affected area.

Meanwhile, the spokesperson of Renaissance,  Michael Adande, who confirmed the incident to 糖心视频, said:  鈥淭he Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited confirms a report today (Monday, May 19, 2025) of an illegal connection which has resulted in a spill incident from the 14-inch Okordia-Rumuekpe Pipeline at Oshika in Rivers State, within the right of way of the pipeline鈥�.

Adande disclosed that immediate steps are being taken to isolate and discontinue production into the pipeline to minimise any potential environmental impact.

He also revealed that the company 鈥渉as informed government regulators, and are coordinating the statutory joint investigation visit, which will be led by their representatives and include representatives from the local community for purposes of determining the cause and impact of the incident鈥�.

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt 

Troops of 6 Division, Nigerian Army, in conjunction with other security agencies have arrested 38 suspected oil thieves and deactivate 28 illegal refining sites in various communities of Niger Delta region.

The troops who made the achievements between May 12 and 18, this year, also recovered over 700,000 litres of stolen products and destroyed several locally made boats used for the criminal acts in the region.

In the statement signed and made available to journalists in Port Harcourt, yesterday, the Acting Deputy Director, 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah, said the suspects perpetrated the crime in Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta and Akwa Ibom states.

Noting that the Division has continued to intensify the crackdown against crude oil theft (COT) and associated crimes across the region, Danjuma said in various anti COT operations conducted in Rivers State, particularly around Okolomade, Orashi and Ozochi Forests, troops made significant inroads. 

He said: “During the operations, troops traced an illegal connection seated directly on a Wellhead at Ozochi Forest. In a follow-up operation conducted, troops discovered over 200 sacks of illegally refined Automotive Gasoline Oil (AGO) with over 300,000 litres of stolen crude in cooking ovens and 300,000 litres of stolen AGO confiscated. 

鈥淥ther seizures included six cooking ovens of 100,000 litres capacity each, four reservoirs, six receivers, pumping machines and generators. Also recovered were hoses used for transporting the stolen products over a distance.” 

He disclosed that three suspected oil thieves were taken into custody in connection to the malfeasance. 

He also disclosed that around Alode junction in Eleme, Rivers, following credible intelligence, troops swooped on a truck with two Lagos State Registration Numbers LSR 546 YH and LND 974 XD loaded with over 45,000 litres of stolen AGO parked at the junction.

Similarly, operations conducted by the troops at Obiafor Forest, led to the arrest of five suspected oil thieves, who were alleged to have established a new illegal bunkering site in the area. 

In the process, the troops discovered a locally made reservoir, situated 300 meters away from an abandoned Wellhead laden with over 25,000 litres of stolen crude in the area. 

Danjuma stated: “At Olughighi area, a wooden boat loaded with over 10,000 litres of stolen crude hidden in the Creeks was demobilised. While, the ongoing clearance operations conducted by troops along Imo River led the deactivation of Seven illegal refining sites, with 31 drum pots, 10 drum receivers demobilized, 38 sacks and over 7,000 litres of stolen products recovered”.

He said: “A sting operations conducted at a makeshift accommodation at Amahausa Community in Ahoada East LGA, led to the recovery of over 50 sacks of illegally refined crude oil estimated to be over 2,500 litres”.

In Bayelsa State, around Biseni in Yenagoa LGA, an illegal refining site with Six ovens, receivers as well as reservoir with over 2,000 litres of stolen products was deactivated by the troops in operations in the area.

in an operation at Isonogbene Creek in Southern Ijaw, troops deactivated an illegal refining site with over 1,500 litres of stolen crude in a reservoir. 

In a related development, in Delta State, troops projected anti COT operations into Ughoton Creeks in Warri South LGA, where three active artisanal refineries with multiple holding facilities, sacks and Six drums containing over 3,600 litres of stolen crude and AGO were handled appropriately. 

Also, at Wellhead 3 Olomoro Flow station in Isoko South LGA, troops intercepted a truck with Registration Number MUS 948 XN loaded with crude oil close to the flow station. Danjuma disclosed that the driver was arrested and is being interrogated accordingly. 

He added that “In Akwa Ibom State, along Abak – Ikot Abasi road, in Abak LGA, troops intercepted a Mini bus with Registration Number BMT 459 XA Akwa Ibom State loaded with over 1,170 litres of illegally refined AGO stocked in nylon bags”, added that the driver of the bus has been arrested.

Commending the troops for the success, the General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Emmanuel Emekah called on them to be professional in their conduct and most importantly scale up the memotum as the operations progresses. 

Emekah made the call, when he paid an on-the-spot assessment to various locations, where he interacted with troops, reassuring them that their welfare has been prioritised adequately. 

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Hundreds of women in Rivers State under the aegis of Rivers Women Unite for Sim (RWUS) have called for genuine reconciliation and lasting peace in the state.
Led by their leader, Sotonye Toby Fulton, the women insisted that development can only thrive in a peaceful environment.

The women who are supporters of the suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, made the call yesterday during their weekly prayer session with the theme: 鈥極 Lord, Unite Rivers State and All Her People in Peace, Harmony, and Love.鈥�

Demonstrating deep solidarity and shared purpose, the women appeared in white attire, representing peace and purity of intent.

It would be recalled that recently at a service of song held in honour of the late Pa Edwin Clark, in Port Harcourt, Governor Fubara who claimed that he was against his supporters鈥� style of seeking peace in the state, remarked that his heart had left the state government, saying that he was at peace out of government.
Meanwhile, the women have insisted that the governor should be reinstated, alongside other suspended elected public officers of the state.

The women lifted heartfelt prayers, calling on God for genuine reconciliation, love, lasting peace, and true harmony across the state.

They prayed for all political and community leaders to embrace forgiveness, unity, and dialogue for the common good of all.

They pleaded with President Bola Tinubu to end the emergency rule in the state, while seeking democratic stability in the state.

Some of the women who spoke with journalists pointed out that peace was vital for the development and economic prosperity of the state.

They promised to continue to seek divine intervention for peace in Rivers State while reiterating the need for political leaders to set aside their differences in the interest of the state.

One of the women, Siki Robinson, a native of Ogu/Bolo, said “We are gathered here today to pray for peace in Nigeria, especially in Rivers State.

“Our governor, Siminalayi Fubara, is innocent. From the look of things, as a mother in Rivers State, we need peace. They should bring back our governor. He is a man of peace and wisdom. He honours mothers and the elderly”.

On her part, a retired lawyer from the state Ministry of Justice, Florence Itamunoala, said: “I believe so much in the power of prayer. When women pray, things happen. We women want blessings for our state, for everybody dwelling in the state and that is why I am here to join the women to lift our voices to the Almighty God, with whom all things are possible so that the peace we desire for our state will become a reality”.

She added that “without peace, there can be no progress, there can be no development, so all who are involved should think of peace”.

Also, Mrs. Beatrice Abel, stressed: “We want peace, if there is no peace the women suffer most. As a woman, daughter, and mother I have come here to tell God that there should be peace in Rivers State.

“We want harmony between our leadership, they then come back together and work as a family to move the state forward.”

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Fulbright Teaching Excellence and Achievement Alumni Association of Nigeria (FTEAAAN) has trained 100 teachers in Rivers State on innovative teachings and learning strategies.

The teachers selected from the public and private schools in the 23 local government areas were empowered by the current teaching trend so their students could benefit and become globally competitive.

Speaking during the training held in Port Harcourt, President of FTEAAAN, Awolanye Banigo, explained that the programme 鈥渋s for secondary school teachers who have an opportunity to go abroad, trained in professional development in a couple of weeks, attached to United States classroom and they get to see how education is done oversea鈥�.

She said the programme is more than a professional exchange but also a life-changing experience that connects passionate educators across the globe.

Banigo, in an interview with 糖心视频, said the programme aimed to replicate in Nigeria some developments observed in the US.

鈥淲e were taught a lot of innovative teachings and learning strategies. Teachers in Nigeria are abreast with current teaching trends so that our students can benefit and become globally competitive,” stated Banigo. 鈥淥ur system here is a teacher-led system. A system where the teacher is the oracle, they all know, and the students are just vessels.”

He added, 鈥淭he aim is to get students to participate in their own learning; they are co-creators of knowledge, not just the teachers. The role of the teacher is to guide and facilitate the student learning.鈥�

Expressing the expectation that the trained teachers would replicate knowledge to their colleagues in their various schools, Banigo said that about 20,000 teachers have been trained across Africa by the group.

鈥淏efore now, we always had virtual programmes and in our virtual programmes, we have trained at least 20,000 teachers across Africa. But this is our first in-person, and in this particular one, we are training 100 people,鈥� Banigo explained.

In her address, Mrs. Mercy Iboroma, Director of Teacher Training and State Development Culture, Rivers State Senior Secondary School Board (RSSSSB), appreciated the organisers for their commitment to advancing quality education through meaningful professional development.

Mrs Iboroma, who stated that the programme was timely and reflected vision and dedication, noted that it would strengthen teachers’ existing skills and introduce new approaches to enhance their effectiveness in the classroom.

鈥淚n the course of the program, you will engage with a range of important themes, including English Language, Science, Education for Sustainable Development, Artificial Intelligence for Educators, and broader opportunities for professional growth.

“This initiative is a meaningful investment in your personal development, in the strength of your schools, and most importantly, in the success of the students you serve,鈥� She told the beneficiaries.

On his part, Kingsley Azuene, Assistant Director of Basic Education Rivers State Ministry of Education, expressed the belief that the government should support the body in enhancing its actions.

Azuene said, 鈥淭he programme indeed has created an impact on the teachers. We are beneficiaries of this training and it is our wish that such a programme should be continuous so that it will change the narrative in the society.

“The teachers鈥� lackadaisical activities and un-researched methods will be improved and it is also our wish that this programme should be done annually and be taken from community to the other in order to fasten the process.鈥�

ReplyReply allForwardAdd reaction

https://meet.google.com/call?authuser=0&hl=en&mc=KAIwAZoBFDoScGludG9feXR4ZGM0eDJ6amU1ogE7GgIQADICUAA6AhABSgQIARABWgIIAGoCCAFyAggBegIIAogBAZIBAhABmgEEGAEgAKIBAhAA4gECCACyAQcYAyAAKgEwwgECIAHYAQE&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fmail.google.com&iilm=1746491246363

Displaying

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

In their determination to sustain the operational successes recorded against oil theft in the Niger Delta Region, troops of 6 Division, Nigerian Army, have dismantled 16 illegal refining sites across the region.

The troops who made the achievements between April 14 to 20, this year, also arrested 23 suspected oil thieves and associated criminals, as well as recovered arms and ammunition.

In their operation with other sister agencies, the soldiers further recovered over 62,000 and 5,000 litres of stolen crude and illegally refined Automotive Gasoline Oil (AGO) from the suspects and their mounted illegal bunkering sites in Niger Delta.

In a statement made available to journalists in Port Harcourt, the Acting Deputy Director, 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah said that clearance operations conducted along the Imo River led to the 鈥渄ismantling of 6 artisanal refineries, 30 drum pots, 24 drum receivers, 1,100 sacks filled with over 22,000 litres of stolen products around Obuzor in Ukwa West LGA of Abia State and Okoloma in Oyigbo LGA of Rivers State鈥�.

He disclosed that in Okrika Creek, following human intelligence, troops recovered a wooden boat loaded with over 2,500 litres of stolen crude, suspected to have been siphoned from Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Jetty in Okrika.

鈥淚n Kula general area, in Akuku-Toru LGA, troops positively identified and arrested three buyers and three sellers of stolen products. The arrest of these criminal merchants, further led to the interception of three tug boats and one fibre boat loaded with over 1,500 litres of illegally refined AGO in jerricans.

鈥淎t Obohia road to Obrikom waterside, in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA (ONELGA), one wooden boat loaded with several sacks of stolen products was intercepted. Seizures were also made at Okwuizi also in ONELGA as well as Okarki Forest in Ahoada West LGA鈥�.

Danjuma revealed that in Bayelsa State, around Adibawa Oando Wellhead in Yenagoa LGA, troops surged operations against the criminals, which led to the deactivation of four illegal refining sites, confiscation of three large concrete reinforced dug out pits filled with over 35,000 litres of stolen crude from the Wellhead.

He said, additionally, over 2,500 litres of illegally refined AGO, with Wellhead valve and pumping machines were also recovered at the site.

鈥淭hese heinous crimes were perpetrated through the use of an 80 meters long pipe connected to the Wellhead used for siphoning crude oil. Likewise, along Gbarain – Zarama road, also in YELGA, various tricycles conveying stolen products were intercepted. Two suspected oil thieves were apprehended in connection to the seizures.鈥�

He added: 鈥淚n Delta State, troops stormed a kidnappers鈥� hideout, around Rhobot City, Ibuzu road in Asaba and Iselle Azagba Community in Aniocha LGA. In the operations that ensued, two suspected kidnappers were apprehended with several dangerous weapons recovered.

鈥淭hese included, two pump action riffles, one double barrel gun, one dane gun and 56 cartridges. Others include 13 cutlasses, one military boot, one camouflage headgear, one axe, a black bag, four fraternity berets, jacket and a park containing four arrows and several charms.鈥�

Similarly, around Warri South general area, Danjuma explained that one illegal refining site, three cooking pots, unspecified quantity of illegally refined AGO and three drums filled with over 600 litres of stolen crude were confiscated. He added that 鈥淚n Akwa Ibom State, troops maintained dominance in the operational landscape, effectively denying criminals freedom of action鈥�.

Meanwhile, the General Officer Commanding, Nigerian Army, Major General Emmanuel Emekah, has visited several troops locations in Bayelsa and Delta States, where he interacted with troops and enjoined them to sustain the operational tempo in the region.

Emekah also assured the troops that their welfare will continue to receive the desired attention as they surge operations against economic saboteurs and associated crimes in the region.

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

A group under the aegis of League of Concerned Rivers Indigenes (LOCRI), has demanded the immediate suspension and review of all appointments made by the Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), including transitional committee lists across the 23 local government areas of the state.

The group made the demand in a petition to the National Assembly Committee on Rivers State Emergency Rule, signed by Derefaka Ajubo (President), Meshac Jaja (Secretary) and Dagogo Achese (23 LGAs Supervisor).

In the petition, the group expressed concern over the worsening political crisis allegedly resulting from the recent appointment of Sole Administrators (SOLADs) across the 23 local government councils.

They stated: 鈥淩ather than stabilise the state as intended by the presidential peace directive, the transition arrangement is fueling widespread unrest, allegedly manipulated by loyalists of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

鈥淲hat was meant to be a neutral, interim measure has instead become a weapon of political entrenchment deepening divisions, alienating grassroots voices, and provoking tension across local councils.鈥�

The petitioners added: 鈥淭here is growing evidence that the current Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Mr. Ibas, is not acting independently. Insiders allege that the list of local government administrators was handed directly to him by Mr. Wike.

鈥淭hese appointments heavily favor Wike鈥檚 faction, sidelining Simplified Movement members and other neutral grassroots stakeholders. This has undermined the spirit of inclusivity, trust, and neutrality needed for a successful transitional process.

The polarising appointments has spark local backlash and might provoke intense local resistance across the 23 local government areas.鈥�

The group listed some of the appointments of SOLAD in the LGAs to include 鈥淥bio/Akpor LGA: Dr. Clifford Ndu Walter, known as a staunch Wike loyalist, has been appointed, triggering discontent among local leaders who back Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

鈥淚kwerre LGA: Isaiah Christian Nobuawu, a relative of Hon. Samuel Nwanosike (a divisive Wike ally), was appointed, rekindling political tension. Degema LGA: Dr Francis Sokari Ibifuro, an open Wike supporter.

Eleme LGA: Dr Gloria Obo-Dibiah, a Wike campaign mobiliser. Khana LGA: Dr. Barinedum Neibere, a known pro-Wike political figure.

鈥淎sari-Toru LGA: The appointment of a relative of Ibinabo Michael West has sparked ethnic and political unrest in Kalabari land.

According to the group, the same pattern of appointments was made in Tai, Okrika, Ahoada East, Andoni, Oyigbo, and Gokana LGAs.

They also observed that instead of building bridges, the process has become a proxy battleground favoring conflict merchants over bridge-builders.

鈥淓ven key state institutions like the RSIEC, Local Government Service Commission, and Civil Service Commission are reportedly being filled with pro-Wike loyalists, further undermining neutrality.鈥�

They however, demanded an investigation into allegations of external political influence in the appointment process.

鈥淚mplementation of an inclusive transitional framework involving traditional rulers, women groups, youth representatives, clergy, and non-partisan technocrats.

鈥淎 public reaffirmation of President Tinubu鈥檚 peace directive, followed by tangible steps to enforce neutrality in state and local governance鈥�, noting that the current trajectory is dangerous.

The group further observed in the petition that 鈥淭he cracks in the state鈥檚 political fabric are deepening. If left unchecked, this may escalate into a full-blown political and security crisis across multiple LGAs.

鈥淩ivers State does not need a disguised extension of factional rule. It needs justice, balance, and peace.鈥�

They also, urged the National Assembly Committee on Emergency Rule to act swiftly and courageously, not only in upholding the rule of law but in safeguarding the unity and stability of the state.

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Clergyman David Udo has called on political leaders in Nigeria to invest in social amenities for the benefit of the citizens.

Speaking with journalists, shortly after celebrating 25th anniversary of his church, The Apostolic Mount Olive Church, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Udo, a prophet, stressed the essence of functional social amenities and a social security system that will cater for the needs of Nigerians.

He charged the leaders to begin to replicate the type of infrastructural development they see abroad back home, given Nigeria鈥檚 abundant resources.

He said: 鈥淭o our leaders in this country Nigeria, who go out to other countries, see what other presidents are doing, we pray to Almighty God to give them wisdom.

鈥淚 advise them to use wisdom, what they go out and see: good hospitals, good education, good economy, the way others manage their countries for the rich and poor to be alive to eat and succeed in this life, you should bring back to this country.鈥�

Udo, who thanked God for the grace upon his ministry in the past 25 years, warned that poor Nigerians, especially children and the elderly, would be exposed to untimely deaths if the leaders fail to take care of them.

鈥淎s you go out, you see steady light. We can have it in this country. You see children born, some of them, government gives them money. Elders, they have a place, they treat them in the way they will live long.鈥�

He added: 鈥淚f our leaders in this country who go out and see cannot bring those things to this country to help the poor, even the elders, the poor can die; elders can die, they can鈥檛 reach the year God gave to them鈥�.

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Upstream), Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan, said a bill seeking to amend the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) to increase oil companies鈥� mandatory contributions to Host Community Development Trusts (HCDTs) from 3% to 10% has passed first reading in the House of Representatives.

Whingan made the announcement, yesterday in Port Harcourt, while delivering the keynote address at a high-level stakeholder dialogue on strengthening HCDTs for sustainable impact, organised by the Stakeholder Democracy Network (SDN) in collaboration with PIND and Search for Common Ground.

His words: 鈥淚n its current form, the 3% contribution by settlors is grossly inadequate to address decades of environmental degradation, poverty, and underdevelopment suffered by host communities.

鈥淭hat is why I am leading efforts to amend Section 240 of the PIA. The bill has passed its first reading and is scheduled for second reading upon the House鈥檚 resumption.鈥�

The proposed amendment, he said, is part of a broader legislative initiative aimed at ensuring justice and equitable resource distribution to communities that have borne the brunt of oil exploration in the Niger Delta.

鈥淥ur duty as lawmakers is to ensure that the wealth from our natural resources translates into tangible prosperity for the host communities. They deserve more than token gestures. They deserve meaningful investment in their future.鈥�

Whingan also revealed ongoing collaboration with civil society groups such as SDN on the development of other legislative frameworks, including the Responsible Extractive Industry Divestment Bill, to ensure transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance in Nigeria鈥檚 oil and gas sector.

Whingan, in his keynote, identified core challenges still facing host communities: environmental degradation from oil spills and gas flaring, poor infrastructure, high unemployment, and lack of transparency in HCDT operations.

鈥淭o fix this, we must strengthen HCDT governance, enhance environmental remediation, boost development funding, and empower host communities to drive the process,鈥� he said.

He assured participants that his office remains open for continued dialogue and cooperation: 鈥淭ogether, through collective effort and inclusive policymaking, we can build a petroleum industry that is not only productive, but truly people-centered.鈥�

Earlier in her welcome address, Country Director of SDN, Ms. Florence Ibok Abasi, stressed that while the establishment of HCDTs under the PIA was a bold and progressive step, its full potential could only be realised with active government engagement.

鈥淲e must acknowledge that unlocking the full potential of the HCDT framework requires the active involvement of government at all levels. The government鈥檚 role is not merely supportive 鈥� it is essential. But this involvement must not come with undue interference. The independence and community-driven essence of these Trusts must be preserved.鈥�

She emphasised that today鈥檚 dialogue was designed to examine how the government could better support HCDTs through regulatory oversight, institutional backing, and alignment with broader development goals.

The session brought together government representatives, civil society leaders, community stakeholders, and oil company officials for robust discussions on reforming and enhancing the impact of HCDTs.

鈥tate judiciary dismiss magistrate鈥檚 claims of resignation

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

A Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has dismissed suit filed by Labour Party in Rivers State against the alleged defection of suspended Speaker of Rivers State House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, and 26 other lawmakers.

The presiding Judge, Justice Emmanuel Obile, in his judgment cited the judgment of Supreme Court, which he said touched on the issue of defection and declared that he could` not preside on a matter that have already been decided by the apex court

The Labour Party had filed the suit challenging the legitimacy of 27 lawmakers accused of defecting to the APC.

The ruling, delivered yesterday by Justice Obile, cited a lack of jurisdiction due to a binding Supreme Court judgment, prompting the Labour Party to vow an appeal.

In Suit No: FHC/PH/25/2024, the Labour Party went to court seeking to have the lawmakers鈥� seats declared vacant, arguing that their defection violated constitutional provisions under Section 272(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

But Justice Obile in his judgement held that the court was bound by Section 287(1) of the Constitution, which mandated adherence to Supreme Court decisions.

Referencing the February 28, 2025, Supreme Court ruling, the judge stated that the apex court had resolved the issue, confirming that the 27 lawmakers did not defect.

鈥淭he Supreme Court鈥檚 judgment is binding on this court,鈥� Justice Obile declared, saying, 鈥淭he issue of the lawmakers鈥� status has been settled, and this court lacks jurisdiction to reopen it.鈥�

Meanwhile, Rivers State Judiciary has dismissed the reason given by retired Chief Magistrate, Ejike King-George for his retirement as Magistrate of the Judiciary of Rivers State.

The magistrate had tendered his resignation from service, citing the unlawful appointment of a Sole Administrator to oversee the political affairs of the state.

In the letter, addressed to the Honourable Chief Judge of Rivers State through the Secretary of the Rivers State Judicial Service Commission Magistrate on April 11, 2025, George said the appointment of a sole administrator was tantamount to a 鈥榪uasi-military administration鈥�.

In the letter titled: 鈥淰oluntary Retirement from Service鈥�, George expressed dismay over the direction of the governance of the state, which he said was 鈥渁lien鈥� and 鈥渁ntithetical鈥� to the values of the legal profession.

鈥淭his is intended to convey my decision to voluntarily retire my appointment as Magistrate of the Judiciary of Rivers State. This difficult and regrettable decision is informed largely by my discomfort with the recent appointment of a quasi-military administration to run the affairs of a modern state like ours.

鈥淢ilord will agree with me that this type of governance system is not only alien but also runs antithetical to our hallowed profession as legal practitioners and adjudicators.

鈥淗aving put in a whopping 16 out of my 22 years of legal practice into this Judiciary as Magistrate under successive democratic administrations, I find it difficult to work with the current setting, as doing so would amount to a tacit and na茂ve acquiescence.鈥�

Reacting, however, the Chief Registrar of Rivers State High Court, DavidIhua-Maduenyi said George was compulsorily retired from service with effect from February 10, 2025 for disciplinary reasons bordering on complaints of continuous absence from duty without leave from August 2025, 2023 till December, 2024.

Speaking with journalists, Ihua-Maduenyi, clarified that the retired Chief Magistrate, sequel to the complaints by Judicial Service Commission appeared before a disciplinary panel which found him wanting and made recommendations including voluntary retirement or would be compulsorily retired, a recommendation which was submitted to the JSC

鈥淪equel to the above, Ejike K. George Esq appeared before a disciplinary panel which found him wanting and made recommendations to the Commission. The Commission offered Ejike K. George Esq. opportunity to retire voluntarily within a specific time frame or be compulsorily retired.

鈥淓jike K. George Esq having failed to retire voluntarily within the said time frame was consequently retired compulsorily with effect from February 10, 2025, and this was duly communicated to him.鈥�

The chief registrar of the State High Court of Justice, said the attempt by the magistrate to link his exit from service with the political situation is not only contrived falsehood but a mischievous action calculated to deceive members of the public and attract undue sympathy and undeserved patronage.

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has disclosed plans to partner with  Rivers, Abia, and other state governments to revive and ensure smooth rail service across the states.

Managing Director of NRC, Dr Kayode Opeifa,  disclosed this when he led his team on a familiarisation tour of the Eastern District of the Corporation in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Addressing journalists immediately after the tour,  Opeifa said that the corporation had earlier commenced partnership with the Plateau government tagged 鈥淩ail on the Plateau鈥�.

 During his tour on facilities in the Eastern District office in Port Harcourt,  Opeifa stated that the NRC was going to continue the inspection to evaluate how the Rivers State government can key into the project.

Opeifa explained that the narrow-gauge tracks pass through Port Harcourt to Aba, noting that the state government can also participate.

鈥淪o, we will be looking at the potential that will make it work. Plateau State has started 鈥楻ail on the Plateau鈥�, so we鈥檒l see what Rivers State Government will come out with.

鈥淎nd when we move on from here tomorrow, we will be in Aba, we are also going to examine what goes on in the coaches, and the train. We are also going to witness the return of the train from Aba and speak to some of the passengers to know what they feel. But more importantly, customer service is key.

鈥淲e appeal to people from the private sector, if you have the capacity to run services on this track, and you can invest in coaches and locomotives, you are welcome.

鈥淭he Aba route is very profitable especially for carriages. There are businessmen and women who wake up in Port Harcourt, end up in Aba in the afternoon, buy their materials, get back to Port Harcourt.. So, we believe there is potential here,鈥� he added.

The NRC chief executive further explained that his visit was part of efforts to dimension the national assets, and to also look at how to revitalise all of them in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda to get railway back to its rightful place in the mobility sector and the Nigerian economy.

He said: 鈥淲e are here in Port Harcourt in continuation with our national tour and this is the beginning of our tour through the Eastern corridor that spans from Port Harcourt to Maiduguri, and from Port Harcourt to meet the Central line which is Warri.

鈥淭he Eastern corridor is so critical and important in the sense that it also leads us to the Western corridor, when you consider extension to the Ports which can be linked together by water going through the integrated multi-boarder system. The Port Harcourt-Aba to Enugu are all through the Enugu corridor. It is also so critical because around Enugu, we have a lot of  minerals that move into the port in those days.鈥�

Opeifa continued that the visit was to examine the essence of the narrow-gauge construction that is still ongoing, currently running up to Aba, which he said will run to Enugu very soon.

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt 

The Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines and Agriculture (NDCCITMA) has received a whooping sum of N10 billion from the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to commence its entrepreneurs鈥� development programme. 

This was disclosed yesterday, at the inauguration of the board of directors of the NDCCITMA at NDDC’s headquarters in Port Harcourt.

Speaking, the Managing Director of NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, explained that the N10 billion is an initial deposit of the N30 billion promised by the commission to invest in the Chamber.

He said the development reaffirmed the NDDC’s commitment to the growth of commerce and trade in the region. 

Ogbuku said, 鈥淒uring the flag-off ceremony of the sensitisation programme, I did mention that the commission will be investing N30bn in the Enterprise Development scheme to be managed by NDCCITMA to support the entrepreneurs in our region from the NANO, Micro and Small-scale level. 

鈥淚 am here to reaffirm that promise. Today, we shall make good the promise by releasing N10bn to the NDCCITMA designated bank for Immediate commencement of the entrepreneur’s development programme.鈥� 

Ogbuku assured of the commission’s commitment to partnering NDCCITMA to achieve its set goals. 

鈥淲e look forward to their partnering with NDCCITMA for the growth of the economies of the states and the region at large. I will also like to appreciate all the state reps on the NDDC board for their full support, it is good that this is happening in your own time on the board of NDDC.

鈥淣DCCITMA and the commission will work out the operational dynamics for the programme. The commission has approved 5000 businesses to kick-start this initiative. We assure you that NDDC is poised to grow the region in commerce and trade through encouraging everyone to

part of the NDCCITMA activities.鈥�

The MD, however, directed all contractors and vendors in the NDDC to ensure they register with the NDCCITMA by July 31, 2025. 

鈥淭he commission will also like to advise all current and intending vendors in NDDC to register with NDCCITMA as doing so will be an added advantage for consideration of possible and continued patronage by the commission. From today to July 31st every NDDC contractor must be duly registered with the NDCCITMA,鈥� Ogbuku noted.

In his remarks, the Board chairman, NDCCITMA, Idaere Ogan, affirmed the Chambers’ readiness to work with NDDC to achieve its vision of transforming the Niger Delta region. 

He said, 鈥淲e align fully with the NDDC’s vision to transform the Niger Delta into a region that is economically prosperous, socially stable, ecologically regenerative and politically principled. 

鈥淭he NDCCITMA is a tool in achieving this transformation. Our purpose is clear, to serve as a catalyst for development across all tiers of the economy from nano and micro businesses to medium size enterprises and large industries. 

鈥淭his platform will facilitate job creation, skills development, invocation, export growth and productive partnerships,鈥� Ogan added.

.Say AGF’s allegations against governor disappointing 

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt 

Kinsmen of suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara have urged President Bola Tinubu to reverse the state of emergency he declared in Rivers State and suspension of their son.

The suspended governor’s kinsmen said Tinubu should allow diplomatic and justifiable resolution of the lingering crisis in the state.

In a communique after a critical stakeholders meeting at Opobo, Fubara’s hometown, Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area, the people held that not only is Tinubu’s emergency in Rivers unconstitutional, but counterproductive as it has induced untold hardship and economic strangulation on law abiding citizens of the state.

This was contained in the communique signed by Ben Daminabo, Prof Blessing Jaja, Edward Namiesimagha, Dr. Roseline Apawari Uranta, Sam Stewart, Maclean Minimah, and Emma Taribo, among others.

The suspended governor’s community people stated, “Our people recognise the strategic economic importance of Rivers State as Treasure Base of the nation, being hub of the oil and gas industry in Nigeria, nay Africa – mainstay of the Nigerian economy and the major foreign exchange earner of our country, Nigeria.

“We affirm our inalienable commitment to the unity, peaceful coexistence and stability of our state and nation in line with universally acceptable democratic principles and ethos in line with the extant provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

“Whereas we unequivocally subscribe to proactive intervention by all and sundry to ensure restoration and sustenance of peace, safety and security of life and property of the citizenry, with the highest sense of patriotism, responsibility and unwavering commitment to the peace, unity, stability and progress of our dear nation, Nigeria, we express deep concerns regarding the declaration of state of emergency in Rivers.”

To the President the people asserted, “While we acknowledge Your Excellency鈥檚 commitment to upholding law and order across the federation and your unwavering determination to ensure the safety of lives and property of all Nigerians, we regrettably observed that the decision fell short of its constitutional requirements as provided under the relevant sections of 1999 Constitution of Nigeria as amended.

“It is evident the issues/matters presented to you were evidently blown out of proportion and did not reflect realities on ground in Rivers State. As at today, Rivers, despite recent political tensions, is not in a state of lawlessness or breakdown of law and order as encapsulated in the constitution to warrant extreme measures.

“Contrary to all the lies bandied by those who don’t wish Rivers well, immediately after the Supreme Court judgement, Governor Fubara publicly declared his acceptance of the judgement and readiness to implement it to the letter.”

They further attested Governor Fubara’s efforts towards the re-presentation of the 2025 Appropriation Bill (Budget) to the state lawmakers, payment of backlog of salaries and allowances arrears to them and provision of a suitable place for the conduct of legislative businesses as proven by the Sole Administrator, Vice Marshal Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd) confirmation that the Rivers State House of Assembly Complex upgrade project by Siminalayi Fubara is over 80 per cent completed.

“Most importantly, no evidence whatsoever that oil pipelines and or other critical national assets in Rivers State have been bombed or in anyway attacked nor tampered with in the state, no single life has been lost nor anyone killed as erroneously claimed by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), on national television.

“We are not only disappointed at the conduct of a learned silk in the standing of Fagbemi, to make such unfounded and embarrassing allegations without verification. Rivers State remains peaceful, safe and resilient, our communities functional, and our institutions operational.鈥�

The people insisted that “The perceived crisis is largely politically orchestrated and motivated, and does not reflect the general atmosphere of peace enjoyed by all LGAs, including Opobo/Nkoro LGA where His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS our suspended Governor hails from and across the other 22 LGAs of Rivers State.”

The reality on ground, the communique captured that, “The unfounded declared state of emergency had brought untold hardship and economic strangulation on the law-abiding citizens of the state. Normal economic activities are ongoing across the state, with businesses, markets, and institutions running smoothly.

“Security agencies have not had any challenging situation of threat to law and order nor any disruptions in the general peaceful atmosphere in the state. Traditional institutions, local leadership, and community structures have continued to promote peace among various groups. The general populace remains peaceful, law-abiding, and committed to harmonious coexistence.

Calling on the President to reconsider its stand on the state of emergency, Opobo stakeholders stated, “We reaffirm the existing unalloyed confidence in the ability of the Governor of Rivers State, Sir (Dr.) Siminalayi Fubara to pilot affairs of the state as provided under the extant law.

“Rather than a state of emergency, we most respectfully urge Your Excellency to consider more diplomatic and constructive approaches to resolving the prevailing tensions.”

Among other options, they recommended high-level stakeholders鈥� engagement to de-escalate tensions and strengthen security agencies to handle isolated security challenges more effectively without invoking emergency powers. 

“As law-abiding citizens and firm believers in democracy, we reaffirm our unwavering support for Your Excellency鈥檚 administration and commitment to national unity, security, peace, and development. We stand ready to work with the federal government and all relevant authorities to ensure Rivers remain stable and prosperous.

“We respectfully urge Your Excellency to re-consider the declaration of state of emergency in Rivers and urgently rescind the suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy, Prof. (Mrs.) Ngozi Odu and members of the Rivers House of Assembly, in the light of the realities on ground in the state,” the communique stated.

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), has solicited requisite legislative backing that will enable his administration to achieve the enunciated programmes of action.

He mentioned such programmes to include ensuring uninterrupted socioeconomic activities and the provision of vital infrastructure that will support societal and economic growth, boost productivity, facilitate access to essential services and ultimately provide quality living for the people. 

Ibas made the appeal yesterday, when the Senate Committee on Works, led by its Chairman, Senator Barinada Mpigi, paid a courtesy visit to Government House in Port Harcourt.

The Senate Committee on Works was accompanied by a delegation of Julius Berger Nigeria PLC, led by the managing Director, Dr. Peer Lubasch.

The administrator stated that their visit has demonstrated the commitment of the National Assembly to the well-being of Rivers State and her people.

Ibas emphasised that his administration has continued to address issues of insecurity, and the infrastructural challenges that are critical to development.

“We are in the process of putting together a new budget that reflects our commitment to healthcare, education, social services, as well as the continued infrastructural development of our state. 

“We have worked diligently to ensure that this process is transparent, inclusive, and most importantly, expediting. The new budget, which is nearing finalisation, focuses on creating job opportunities and investing in key sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, and technology.

“As we move forward with these initiatives, we need your continued support to help us secure necessary resources and legislative backing to bring them to fruition. Your partnership is critical to our success in ensuring that Rivers State remains on the path of progress and enduring peace for future generations,” Ibas said.

He told the delegation that as they undertake the oversight duties to assess critical infrastructure in the state, it is important for them to address their minds to the position that Rivers State occupies in the country.

He said: “Rivers State, the treasure base of the nation and a key economic hub of the nation is home to vital infrastructure including roads, bridges, sea and air ports, oil and gas facilities, a petro-chemical company, refineries and other essential facilities.

“However, as in most states of the nation, we are faced with challenges of maintaining and expanding this infrastructure due to various factors, including but not limited to resource constraints.”

The administrator requested their cooperation in securing the necessary federal support for infrastructural projects in the State. 

He said: “You have listed most of the projects that are ongoing presently. These include both financial backing and the facilitation of speedy execution of federal projects that will contribute to our state’s growth.

“Your continued advocacy within the National Assembly will be instrumental in ensuring that Rivers State receives the attention and resources needed to succeed.”

Ibas explained that since assumption of office on the 20 of March, 2025, he has prioritised the restoration of peace and stability in Rivers State. 

He said the efforts have, so far, been focused on creating a conducive environment for investment, development and prosperity. 

“We have engaged in productive consultation with key stakeholders, such as civil society organisations, traditional rulers, local government heads, government officials and civil servants to restore the trust and stability needed for sustainable progress.

“I believe that with your support and continued collaboration, we can transform Rivers State into a model of peace, prosperity and development. Together, we can overcome the challenges we face and create a future that is bright for all our people.”

In his address, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Senator Mpigi, said they were in the state to oversee some ongoing federal projects like the Bodo-Bonny Link Road and Bridge, and the Coastal Road project which is 40 per cent complete, and will benefit the state, eventually.

Mpigi noted the intervention role the state of emergency plays in Rivers and urged the administrator to do his best in ensuring that critical infrastructure are secure while lives and property of residents are protected.