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Category: News

  • Groups exonerate Ex-Lawmaker, Eni of gun-running in Ebonyi 

    Groups exonerate Ex-Lawmaker, Eni of gun-running in Ebonyi 

    ….task his accusers to withdraw petition, tender apology 

    … Urges Gov. Nwifuru to call Ebonyi APC Chairman to order

    Uchenna Okeh Abakaliki 

    A Group known as Ekoli Patriotic Front, EPF, has condemned in totality the petition written against the former council Chairman of Edda LGA, Hon. Eni Uduma Chima by impersonators under the guise of Ekoli Edda Band of Hope Union.

    The leadership of Ekoli Patriotic Front made this known in an eight paragraphs communique  signed by the President and secretary general, Chief Agwu Chima Onyike, Mr. Okoro Ekuma Anya, and issued to newsmen yesterday by the National Public Relations Officer, Ogbuagu Okwara in Abakaliki, the capital of Ebonyi State.

    The group tasked the writers of the said petition, tittled; ‘Urgent Security update” to tender an unreserved apology to the former House of Assembly member, Hon. Barr. Eni Uduma Chima, adding that the said petition, is a tissue of fresh lies, concocted to create an impression that there is fresh tension or brewing crisis in their Ekoli Edda community.

    They further blasted those hiding on the cover of Ekoli Band of Hope Union and to instigate false security alarms against Eni Uduma Chima, noting that: “The petition is yet another patently false conjecture by some supposedly learned Ekoli elites who live in perennial and morbid fear of the unmatched popularity and accomplishments of our illustrious son, Eni Uduma Chima, otherwise commonly hailed as “Okpata Ozua Oha”.

    The communique reads in part: “For all intents and purposes, the so-called petition, signed by one Samuel Kalu Ama MBA, supposedly the Chairman of the Caretaker Committee, Ekoli Band of Hope Union, EBHU and his Assistant Secretary, a certain Okechukwu Oke Azu and copied to the security agencies and some offices of government in Ebonyi State is one of the worst false alarms raised by characters who always cheaply avail themselves to be used by their political paymasters led by the State APC Chairman, Chief Stanley Okoro Emegha to always stoke fear, tension and anxiety in our peaceful and peace-loving Ekoli community.

    It said, “The very poorly punctuated petition strangely had alleged that, “He (Eni) was sighted today with this group of boys with weapons in the remote part of Mogborokuma, Azuofor, Ogba Agu, and Ndi Ibom. Villagers to and from farms who saw those boys entering the community with weapons have been expressing fears of attack and impending crises.

    The petitioners who further alleged that the “same unknown and strange faces were sighted also with weapons in group at various locations in the community at odd hours. While Eni Uduma Chima’s mission with these boys is yet unknown, we want to appeal to the relevant persons or groups mentioned above to call him to order.

    “We wish to correctly state that it is only for the fear of Eni Uduma Chima who has always risen above their disgusting hatred and low profiles that these fresh petitions are being made. We do not need to consult the gods to affirm that the contents are false and fabricated in it’s entire, concocted purposely to achieve the other hidden agenda they may be plotting and desperately hatching.

    The group further said, “To the end of the above bold and audacious assertion therefore, our dear son, Eni does not need any security guard or group and has never used any to visit and traverse the length and breadth of our community including faraway farm lands and settlements. Even the Police Orderlies attached to him are hardly seen moving with him once he enters Ekoli which of course, he does every other weekend, not for political reasons but for his love of always bonding with his people at home and attending ceremonies dear to them.

    They called on the petitioners to withdraw the said petition and tender an unreserved apology to Eni within 48 hours, the group also said it is “urging the Ebonyi State government under the leadership of governor, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru to intervene in the brewing crises always being instigated by this imposed CTC of Ekoli Band of Hope Union and their paymasters.”

    “Particularly, we plead that he should call the State’s Party Chairman, Stanley Okoro Emegha and his goons to order. Already, they have given our community enough negative publicity all because of their uncommon hatred and fear for one man; Eni Uduma Chima who like an ant, keeps marching slowly but progressively  towards his own political goals and visions all for our community’s good and interest, the group cautioned.

    In a related development, the leadership of the Ekoli Edda Band of Hope Union, in a statement signed by the secretary general, the financial secretary, and the provost; Prof. I.I Ekpe, Sir, Orji Ekuma and Ndubuisi Arua made available to newsmen in Abakaliki, disassociated themselves from the said frivolous petition.

    According to them: “This is to inform the general public that all the documents/ correspondences released to the public by Samuel Kalu Ama Mba and or Okechukwu Oko Eze, some of which are signed and others unsigned are mere abuse of letterhead papers of Ekoli Edda band of hope union by Samuel Kalu (chairman of the caretaker committee of Ekoli Edda band of hope union) who is desperate to tarnish the good image and the political goodwill of Eni Uduma”:they stated.

    Also in a swift reaction personally signed by him, the former lawmaker, Eni Uduma, who represented Afikpo South West Constituency in the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, said :”I’m aware of the campaign of calumny and criminal defamation against my person as organized by Chief Stanley Okoro Emegha and his boy, Kalu Ama Mba.  

    “It is laughable how paranoid this political group has become and shocking on how within 6 months,  they have used more Ekoli Band of Hope Union letter-headed paper than Chief Ette Eni Oji used in his 32 years reign as the President General of Ekoli Band of Hope Union” he stated. 

    In a reaction however, the State chairman of the All Progressives Congress APC, Stanley Okoro Emegha insisted that time shall come when Eni will answer questions on the arms he has allegedly been stockpiling in the community with which he alleged he plans to unleash against the community for rejecting him.

    He described Eni as a local champion that is interested in local politics when he should be thinking on what to do to develop the area.

  • Tinubu has good intention for Nigeria, needs to overhaul 1999 constitution –  Isong

    By Lovina Anthony, Akwia-ibom 

    A Human Rights Organization, Centre for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN) said that president Bola Ahmed Tinubu has good intentions for Nigeria. though urging him to review or overhaul the 1999 constitution to accommodate the current realities in Nigeria is long overdue.

    The Director of CHRAN, Otuekong Franklyn Isong made this known in Uyo during a Symposium to mark the 2024 Democracy Day in Nigeria with the theme “Civil Society as the Pivot of Good Governance in a Democratic Setting”.

    He observed that the Constitution which is now twenty five years in existence has not effectively addressed Nigeria’s multifarious problems and challenges saying, “there is no doubt that the extant Constitution requires a fundamental review, if not a complete overhaul.”

    Enumerating the lapses of the 1999 constitution, the Director noted, “Section 2(2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), states that Nigeria shall be a federation consisting of States and a Federal Capital Territory. It excludes the local government areas as part of the federation thus impeding grassroots development in Nigeria.

    “In Section 7(1) of the Nigerian Constitution, the system of local government by democratically elected local government councils is guaranteed. But the funding of the local government areas is tied to the apron-strings and control of the State Governments in Section 162(6) of the Constitution, which states that each State shall maintain a special account to be called “State Joint Local Government Account” into which shall be paid all allocations to the local government councils of the State from the Federation Account and from the Government of the State.

    “Again, the State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs) is provided for in section 197(1)(b) of the Constitution while its funding is in the hands of State Governments, making the SIECs an appendage of the State Governors.”

    He, however, commended Governor Umo Eno, for allowing the funds of the Local Government Councils to get to them saying, “this information was verified during the just concluded tour of the 31 local government councils by the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, with the CHRAN as a part of the team.”

    Isong also noted that for the 25 years of uninterrupted democracy in Nigeria, Nigeria is still searching for capable leaders and true democrats at the helm of affairs stressing, “leaders who would enact the aspirations of the presumed winner of the June 12, 1993 President Election, Chief Moshood Abiola.”

    While wishing president Bola Tinubu success in his administration, the Director urged him to be one of the frontline June 12 activists to implement the ethos of democracy and make his government people centric.

    He urged him to revisit the policy on the fuel subsidy and reverse it in line with the popular opinion of Nigerians as the policy has failed to achieve its desired intention. 

    “I believe that Mr. President has good intentions for this country. He has demonstrated the capacity to provide good governance to Nigerians. I wish he listens to the plea of Nigerians by reversing the fuel subsidy removal. The strength of character of a good leader is when the leader listens to his followers and makes amends. Surely, Nigeria shall be great again!” He stated. 

  • Kogi: FG commissions zoo, vows to improve nation’s economy through tourism

    By Odimayo Olatunde, Kogi

    The Federal Government on Thursday Commissioned the first zoo located in the history of Kogi State north Central Nigeria with a charge on all stakeholders to key into the present administration’s commitment in improving the nation’s economy through tourism.

    The Conservator General, National Park Service, Ibrahim Musa Goni made this known during the Commissioning of Federal University Lokoja Zoo and Conservatory, (FULZAC) that took place in Kogi State north Central Nigeria.

    He said that travelling and tourism in Nigeria are estimated to contribute about 3.6% to Nigeria’s GDP annually, which is equal to around 17.3 billion U.S dollars. 

    He said” According to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), approximately 180 million people visit AZA accredited zoos and aquariums each year, contributing about $24 Billion to the U.S Economy. 

    “The establishment of this zoo and conservatory demonstrates a moment of hope and pride for our country’s conservation efforts. As a nation rich in natural and cultural diversity, the protection of our natural resources has always been of utmost importance. Therefore, the establishment of this center holds immense significance.

    “I must sincerely Commend the visionary leadership of the Federal University Lokoja, led by Prof. Olayemi Akinwumi and his Management team, for recognizing the need to create this center dedicated to the conservation and preservation of our unique flora and fauna. 

    “By doing so, they have established an institution that will not only contribute to the academic growth of its students but also serve as a symbol of environmental stewardship and education for the wider community. 

    He disclosed that the role of zoos and conservatories in the preservation and protection of biodiversity cannot be overstated, adding that they serve as living laboratories, fostering deep understanding and appreciation for the natural world. 

    The Conservator General opined that through effective collaboration between academia, conservationists, and the government, this center has the potential to lead innovative research, engage in relevant conservation initiatives, and create a platform for public awareness and education. 

    Musa added that “They can also contribute to the conservation of endangered plant and animal species. These facilities are important educational tools, 

    providing visitors with the opportunity to learn about different species and ecosystems. 

    “They also serve as genetic reservoirs for rare species, helping to maintain genetic diversity. Additionally, zoos and conservatories promote sustainable tourism. Zoo and wildlife parks are aspects of ex-situ conservation where animals are domesticated and bred to support in situ conservation in National Parks and Protected and Conserved Areas. This is because zoo animals can be reintroduced back in the wild to stem the tide of extinction and disappearance of species.

    “I have full confidence that the Federal University Lokoja Zoo and Conservatory will become a symbol of excellence in conservation, where students, researchers, and the general public can come together to celebrate and protect our rich biological heritage, With a team dedicated to promoting environmental sustainability, the possibilities for conservation education, research, and public engagement are unlimited” he stated.

    The Director of the Zoo, Prof Jacqueline Azumi Badaki commended the pragmatic leadership of the institution led by Prof Akinwunmi for his efforts in ensuring that the establishment of the project sees the light of the day.

    “Ours is not just a Zoo but also a conservatory Zoo generally is where animals are housed within enclosures replicating their natural habitats. Often the purpose is to display animals to the public, and in some cases the animals are bred for conservation, education and research purposes. 

    Earlier in his address, the Vice Chancellor, Federal University Lokoja Prof Olayemi Akinwumi appreciated the team that put up the zoo together stressing that, the zoo will serve as education and wildlife for Students, and researchers in the Country.

    “The establishment of Federal University Lokoja Zoo and Conservatory, (FULZAC) is for multiple vital purposes hence it is an educational resource in providing a mini laboratory for our students and researchers in the field of biology, environmental, science and wildlife management” he stressed.

  • ‘Poverty is the greatest threat to Nigeria democracy- Ex- House of Reps speaker, Dogara

    ‘Poverty is the greatest threat to Nigeria democracy- Ex- House of Reps speaker, Dogara

    By: Ajiya Ayuba, Bauchi

    The former speaker of the house of representative, Yakubu Dogara has said that democracy is not working for the majority of the citizens of the country.

    He made this known during a program that took place at Marriott hotel, Ikeja-Lagos State, Nigeria.

    Yakubu Dogara who represented Bogoro, Dass and Tafawa-Balewa Federal constituency for sixteen (16) years in the house of representatives, spoke on the topic: “Democracy and the free market economy”.

    He said that “Our Democracy is not working for majority of our citizens. This is because, although they are alive and free, they lack the means with which to pursue happiness”

    Adding that “Poverty is a greater threat to a democracy than weak institutions simply because it deprives poor citizens not only of their political voice but prevents them from holding their governments accountable shattering public trust in the emerging institutions of democracy”

    “The challenge before us now is how to utilize our democratic rights to build an all-inclusive economy that empowers an overwhelming majority of our people to unleash their full potentials. Staying engaged just as we are doing today, is one of the ways of making our democracy work”

    “We must never stop  putting pressure on Government to set clear targets and monitor progress when it comes to addressing the causes of poverty because poverty, though experienced by individuals, is created by parlous systems that fail to protect citizens rights to a decent standard of living”

    “After forty years of policy implementations and effective governance, China has successfully lifted 770 million of its citizens out of poverty, and India, too, has revealed that nearly 250 million people have been lifted out of multidimensional poverty. With purposeful leadership, Nigeria can achieve that”

    “Nigeria is in a demographic transition with a major problem which is that our population curve has far outpaced the hope and opportunity curve leaving us with no option than to expand our economic space if we must save our democracy. Unfortunately, the “youth bulge” has turned out not a blessing as it is only producing disaffected rebels instead of productive laborers. There is no Nigerian out there that doesn’t want change, but the problems are so consuming and absorbing that we fail to articulate what changes we need to adopt”

    He said that more than two decades of unbroken democracy has not resulted in adequate security of lives and properties of the citizens of Nigeria, quality infrastructure, decent employment, access to qualitative education, health, shelter, food and water nor afforded the generality of people adequate standard of living.

    “These are the economic and social rights that enable people to live with dignity and participate fully in society”

    “I believe these are the factors that necessitated the choice of today’s theme, “Democracy and the free market economy” which is apt in the sense that when citizens lack access to their economic and social rights, they cannot fully participate in civic life and therefore can not do the work of democracy” 

    “But we must thank God for the freedom to engage in an open conversation about the near total absence of those rights that empower citizens of democracy, utilizing the freedom democracy offers to build the kind of society that better meets their needs and aspirations” 

    “Nigerians have lost faith in the Naira as a store of value and that faith cannot be restored anytime soon, even the average Nigerian investor is now thinking of how to invest in ventures that will bring in USD returns. PMB’s currency swap with China didn’t work out for obvious reasons. 

    “The challenge before the government is how to unlock and make the USD locked up in private vaults in Nigeria begin to chase the Naira. That, to me, is the commonsensical solution.

    “Government should improve inward remittances of funds by Nigerians in the Diaspora. Diaspora funds are excellent and reliable sources of funding development in several developing and emerging market economies. Nigeria must make an attractive value proposition to its citizens abroad to engender their confidence and attract remittance through proper channels”

    “Government must also create and deploy a robust ecosystem of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to create millions of jobs, fuel high economic growth, build our foreign reserves, and strengthen our currency. I suggest the country should be subdivided into strategic economic zones, according to the natural economic endowment of each part of the country.

    The former speaker, Yakubu Dogara advise that North should be an Agric/Agro-Allied Zone, to concentrate on massive commercial farming involving sustainable transformation from rain fed to irrigated agriculture and manufacturing and supplies of agricultural plants and machinery, food processing, innovation and entrepreneurship.  

    “We must at all cost reduce the present poverty level and Government must lead the way by being very aggressive in the pursuit, design, and implementation of appropriate policies that would give birth to a robust ecosystem of MSMEs all over the country. 

  • 25 yrs of democratic rule has brought too much hardship to Nigerians -Ex- NBA boss, Ukweni

    From Ene Ene, Calabar 

    The former Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, Calabar branch, Chief Mba Ukweni (SAN) has said that the 25 years of democratic rule in the country has brought too much hardship to Nigerians.

    He added that what we earn as income can no longer meet our needs.

    The legal luminary, Ukweni made this known while speaking with newsmen in Calabar to mark the 25 years of Democracy in the country,.

    He stated that the value of our currency is abysmally downward because of bad economic policies of our leaders 

    Ukweni, SAN, maintained that until the leaders see the need of producing for export to attract more foreign exchange, the country will continue to wallow in poverty.

    He said with abundant resources and vast land space coupled with the population that the country is blessed, the country consumes and borrow more than what they produced, which makes it practically impossible for the country to grow economically 

    He said labour today is fighting for increase in wages to assuage hardship, but if you ask me, I would suggest that they should rather fight for economic stability by pushing for the system to be productive, we are only consuming” he stated.

    The legal luminary maintained that as long as there is no production in the country, the economy can never be strong and our naira will continue to be weak, no matter how much is given to workers as salaries 

    He said in the 70s and the 80s before the devaluation of naira, Nigeria had one of the strongest economy because it was a production economy and naira was used in international market to trade like in our neighboring countries in west Africa, and naira was ahead of some foreign currencies 

    The former Chairman of NBA Calabar branch linked all the woes faced by the country to our leaders past and present who don’t have the interest of the country at heart, but put their personal interest and that of their families first to the detriment of the country 

  • ‘Governors who can’t pay minimum wage should resign – Ebonyi LP boss, Igiri

    Uchenna Okeh, Abakaliki

    The leadership of the labour Party, LP, in Ebonyi state on Wednesday, tasked governors in the 36 states of the Federation, who can’t pay the approved minimum wage, to resign.

    The newly appointed transition committee chairman of labour Party, LP, Ebonyi state chapter, Mr Innocent Igiri, made this known in Abakaliki capital of Ebonyi State.

    Igiri, among other state excos was appointed during the state enlarged stakeholders meeting that took place at the San Diego hotel located along old Enugu road Abakaliki.

    In an acceptance speech, Igiri said: “I humbly wish to accept this appointment to serve as the Chairman Labour Party Ebonyi State Transition committee.

    Labour Party in Ebonyi State following the National Transition committee is now set for a journey into the new Nigeria we seek.

    “I thank our state Labour Party Stakeholders, the NLC, the Obidient family and the entire Labour party faithful in Ebonyi State. Your resilience is very loud to the deaf and clear to the blind. 

    “We fought gallantly since 2022, and we are going nowhere because we have been pushed to the wall and there’s no other place to go than to join Mr. Peter Obi, Comr.Splendour Oko Eze, and indeed the majority of our people to continue in Labour Party for a New Nigeria beginning with a new Ebonyi State.

    “Let me use this opportunity to air my voice on the issue of a new minimum wage as proposed by NLC. Let me say this; the Nigerian Governors Forum should not ridicule the suffering masses.

    “People are indeed suffering. As at today, inflation rate has gone to 34%, naira to dollar is 1600,the price of premium motor spirit is between 600-1500, and you expect the minimum wage to only adjust a bit up? 

    “That is ridiculous! Any governor who says that he can’t pay the agreed minimum wage between the tripartite committee and the Federal Government on minimum wage should with immediate effect resign and hands off the mantle. 

    “Workers deserve a living wage.

    Finally, I congratulate my co-transition committee members, together we shall deliver and restore the dignity of Labour Party in Ebonyi State in tandem with the plans of the National Transition Committee of our great Party. Our quest to have a party that is geared towards winning election cannot be defeated” he stated.

  • June 12: Gov Mbah applauds Tinubu, says democracy still witnessing challenges in Nigeria 

    From Chinelo Kodilichukwu Enugu

    Enugu State State governor, Peter Mbah, has congratulated the people of the state and Nigerians on the occasion of the 2024 Democracy Day, saying that democracy is the best form of government, despite the teething challenges.

    Mbah, who described June 12 as a watershed in the nation’s democratic struggles, also paid tributes to notable Nigerians, including Chief Moshood Abiola and President Bola Tinubu, for their contributions to the  enthronement of the current democratic dispensation.

    These were contained in the governor’s Democracy Day message to the people of the state on Wednesday.

    “As our nation celebrates Democracy Day today, I felicitate with Ndi Enugu and all Nigerians on this momentous milestone in Nigeria’s history. 

    “June 12 is a watershed moment for our democracy, the protracted struggle for it and, ultimately, the democratic freedoms that we take for granted today.

    “So, today is an occasion for us to call to mind the sacrifices of everyone, living or dead, who played diverse roles in ensuring that democracy blossoms in Nigeria. 

    “On this note, I pay a special tribute to Chief MKO Abiola, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu, and our dear President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR; among a host of others, for their heroic contributions in the struggle. 

    “I enjoin everyone to let our commitment to upholding the democratic culture be renewed by the memory of the price we paid for democracy. 

    “There is no doubt that our democracy might yet be experiencing some floundering steps and challenges, but it nonetheless remains the best form of government that guarantees prosperity for all.

    “Indeed, today is also a fitting occasion to restate my commitment to improving the lives of Ndi Enugu and to set the state on a firm path of progress” he stated.

  • June 12: ‘We’ll Work hard to end of hardship – Gov Bala

    By: Ajiya Ayuba, Bauchi

    The governor of Bauchi state, Bala Mohammed Abdulkadir has said that his administration will continue to work hard to bring to an end hardship in the state.

    Abdulkadir made this known in a statement signed and issued to newsmen by his adviser on media and publicity, Mukhtar Mohammed Gidado on Wednesday.

    He said that “I would like to appeal for your continued understanding and cooperation as we strive to salvage the situation.

    He said that “The current economic hardship being experienced occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidy is noa national problem that has been receiving the attention of both the Federal and state Governments. 

    “Accordingly, the Bauchi State Government in collaboration with relevant Federal Government Agencies have been taking appropriate measures by providing palliatives in form of food and non food items to bring succor to the people”

    Adding that “We are today celebrating the 25th Democracy Day is a testimony to the fact that democratic governance has not only been firmly rooted but has also come to stay in Nigeria. There is no better alternative to democracy as a form of government that gives the people the right to choose who to govern them and how they want to be governed. 

    “It is now one year since I was re-elected to serve the good people of Bauchi State for another four years. My re-election is a testimony of the confidence reposed in our Administration by the good people of Bauchi State.

    “A blueprint we had developed even before our election in 2019. In order to improve on our performance during our first term, a technical committee was constituted to review the blueprint with a view to assessing the level of delivery of dividends of democracy and recommend how to address any grey areas and the way forward”

    The governor, senator Bala said that his second tenure is witnessing aggressive execution of life touching projects across the State. While completing all ongoing projects, new ones have been embarked upon. 

    Adding that Infrastructural development in the areas of road construction, construction and rehabilitation of educational and health facilities, water supply, agricultural inputs and machineries would continue to receive the desired attention.

    “Priority would also be given to human capital development through economic empowerment, especially of our teeming youth. Security is also on our priority list. We would therefore, continue to collaborate with and support security agencies to rid the State of crime and criminal elements”

    “Bauchi State Government depends almost entirely on funds from the Federation Account as its source of revenue. Due to uncertainty in the global oil market, there is the need for us to look inwards to diversify our economy. This will entail boosting agriculture through provision of adequate inputs, encouragement of farm mechanization and deployment of extension workers to guide our farmers for improved crop production and animal husbandry”he stated 

  • 9 LGAs at high flood risk In Bauchi – NEMA

    By: Ajiya Ayuba, Bauchi

    The Director-General, National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, Zubaida Umar has said that about nine local government areas in Bauchi State will witness high rate of flood.

    She advises the state government led by Bala Mohammed to take early mitigation action against the predicted 2024 flood disaster.

    Umar made the call during the sensitization programme for the 2024 down-scaling of flood early warning strategies for early actions that took place in Bauchi state.

    She said that it is imperative to downscale and sensitize on the 2024 flood early warning strategies for effective early actions to save lives and livelihoods during the rainy season.

    Umar noted that Bauchi has in the past been severely impacted by flood for the rainy season, noting that some local government areas of the State are still predicted to be affected by flooding.

    “These LGAs which are under high and moderate flood risk areas include Toro, Itas Gadau, Bauchi , Jama’are,Shira ,Zaki Ganjuwa ,Warji and Katagum,” She Said.

    The director general of NEMA, Umar who was represented by Mr. Garba Mohammed, Director Internal Audit of the Agency said the Agency’s mandate includes coordinating emergency preparedness, mitigation, and response activities across Nigeria.

    “The Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) had predicted flood high-risk areas in several states and local government areas (LGAs) from April to November.

    “As you may be aware, the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) have both released the Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) and Annual Flood Outlook (AFO) respectively for 2024,” She said.

    She also called on stakeholders to work together to safeguard communities at risk, protect critical infrastructures, and support what she termed uninterrupted socio-economic activities in the country, from flooding.

    She also recommended  community sensitization, clearing of waterways, monitoring of dam discharge, and relocation of flood-prone communities.

    Umar stressed the need for regular coordination meetings among emergency sectors to effectively respond to adverse climate-related situations.

    The DG however, reiterated the Agency’s’ commitment to reduce the impact of the predicted flooding and provide necessary support to the affected persons.

    In a remark, Mr Mashud Aliyu, Director General (DG) Bauchi State Emergency Agency SEMA, explained that the State government had already started the flood awareness campaign by meeting with stakeholders in the emergency sector.

    He urged the stakeholders to actively participate in the sensitization programmes, and support the initiative from the grassroots, to mitigate the flood disaster in the State.

    The Bauchi state Director General,  appreciated the NEMA for downscaling of flood early warning strategies and calling for proactive measures to prevent the menace.

  • June 12: Tinubu’s Aide, Nweze tasks Nigerians to be united, shun geographical, political differences 

    Uchenna Okeh, Abakaliki

    The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement, South Eas, Mrs Chioma Nweze has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and governors of the south east region for clocking one year in office.

    She however, tasked Nigerians to shun all dialectical, geographical and political differences and be united, for the purpose of moving the country forward.

    Nweze made this known in a statement signed and issued to newsmen, to mark this year’s democracy anniversary celebration, taken place in the various states of the federation.

    The statement reads in part: “On this year’s democracy anniversary, I wish to join the chorus of voices within and outside Nigeria in commemorating and congratulating our country as it twinkles into 25 full years of uninterrupted representative democratic governance and political stability.

    “As we herald this historic turning point, we are all very familiar with the story of June 12. It is and will remain a watershed in Nigeria’s democratic memoirs and an indispensable propeller of our journey. 

    “As we recognize the priceless sacrifice of the generation of men and women who fought gallantly for our democracy, I share a strong conviction that our future remains and will depend on the patient and methodical building of our country, steadily complemented by our individual and collective support to the current administration as it continues to lead the voyage to the Nigeria of our dream.

    “A better Nigeria is our common goal but its realization requires effort from everyone. Let us reflect today, on this collective responsibility and pledge within ourselves to play a part in achieving this. 

    The senior special assistant, Nweze further commended the governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru, the minister of works, David Umahi and the leadership of the All Progressives Congress, APC, for their contributions towards the development of Nigeria and Ebonyi state in particular.

    “I congratulate my leader governor, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, my mentor and incumbent Minister of Works Senator David Umahi, my political family the All Progressives Congress and fellow Nigerians at large.

    “Truly, we have in the course of this 25 years of democracy become all too aware of how transient power is and that we the people are the only constant factor in the democratic equation. This behoves on us a responsibility to purge ourselves of dialectical, geographical and political differences and to stand united in love in order to attain the sustained growth and progress we desire” she stated.