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IGP Mandates Unsealing Of LGA Headquarters After Governor Fubara Swears In APP Chieftains
The local government office was shut down in mid-2023 as a result of the dispute between the Caretaker Committee Chairmen supporting Gov. Fubara and the former local government chairmen.
The Rivers State Police Command has unlocked all 23 Local Government Area Secretariats in the state subsequent to the selection and inauguration of new chairmen.
This was announced in a press release by the police public relations officer, Iringe-Koko early Monday.
She said the newly deployed Commissioner of Police, CP Mustapha Bala acting on the orders of the IGP, Kayode Egbetokun has ordered the immediate withdrawal of all police personnel previously deployed to seal and safeguard the council secretariats in the state.
The secretariat was sealed in June following the disagreement between the Caretaker Committee Chairmen loyal to Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the immediate past local government chairmen, who were loyalists of Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The development was after Governor Siminalayi Fubara had sworn in 23 newly elected local government chairmen in the state.
The exercise held at the Executive Council Chambers of the Government House in Port Harcourt, the state capital on Sunday, comes a day after the Rivers State Independent National Electoral Commission (RSIEC) conducted an election at the grassroots.
See Unabridged Declaration Below::
POLICE ORDERS UNSEALING OF LGA SECRETARIATS, WITHDRAWAL OF DEPLOYED PERSONNEL WITH IMMEDIATE EFFECT
In view of the recent political developments in Rivers State, the newly deployed Commissioner of Police, CP Bala Mustapha hereby convey the directives of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, for the immediate withdrawal of all police personnel previously deployed to seal and safeguard the Local Government Secretariats in the state. This decision is in line with the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to ensure neutrality and the smooth functioning of democratic institutions.
Consequently, the IGP has ordered the unsealing of the Local Government Secretariats, which were earlier secured by police personnel. The police will only be redeployed to these locations in the event of any crisis or breakdown of law and order, in which case emergency measures will be swiftly implemented to restore normalcy.
The Rivers State Police Command assures the public of its readiness to maintain peace and order across the state and will continue to act professionally in discharging its duties. We urge all residents and stakeholders to remain calm and law-abiding as the situation evolves.
GRACE IRINGE-KOKO (ANIPR),
POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER,
RIVERS STATE POLICE COMMAND.
FOR: THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE
OCTOBER 7, 2024
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Kellyrae Declared Champion Of Big Brother Naija 9th Edition
He now adds to the ranks of previous All-Stars winner Ilebaye Odiniya (GenZ Baddie) to secure the grand prize.
The contestant on Sunday was the victor of the current Big Brother Naija Season 9, winning the top prize of N60 million, a sports utility vehicle, and extra benefits.
Kellyrae beat fellow housemate Wanni, who became the first runner-up, and Onyeka, who emerged as the second runner-up position.Kellyrae now joins the likes of last season’s All-Stars winner Ilebaye Odiniya (Gen Z Baddie) to claim the grand prize.
Regarded as Nigeria’s most anticipated TV show, this season’s theme “No Loose Guard”, which premiered on July 24, 2024, welcomed 14 pairs of housemates,
However, only one pair and six individual contestants made it to the final.
The other finalists were Victoria, Ozee, Sooj, Nelly, and Anita.
The top 8 Big Brother Naija Season 9 contestants
This year’s edition had an unusual twist as the participants were required to apply in pairs.
Among the eight finalists, Kellyrae, Victoria, and Wanni were considered favourites by many viewers to make the top three and earn final podium spots
The finale was a star-studded affair, featuring performances from popular artistes Joseph Akinfewa-Donus, aka Joeboy, and Chimamanda Chukwuma, popularly referred to as Qing Madi.
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Turmoil Engulfs Rivers Over Removal Of Blockade On LG Secretariats
Governor Siminalayi Fubara had officially appointed twenty-three newly elected local government chairmen in the state.
Conflict was said to have ensued in the Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State in the wake of cancellation of the three-month restriction on the LGA offices by the IGP, Egbetokun on Monday.
The area is the Local Government Area of the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Ehie.
Our correspondents at the scene who later ran to safety, said police officers were seen firing into the air to disperse persons who tried to resist the resumption of the Ahoada East chairman on Monday.
A statement by the Command’s spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko earlier on Monday morning, had directed the re-opening of all the 23 LGA secretariats in the state.
The newly deployed Commissioner of Police, CP Mustapha Bala acting on the orders of the IGP, Kayode Egbetokun ordered the immediate withdrawal of all police personnel previously deployed to seal and safeguard the council secretariats in the state.
The secretariat was sealed in June following the disagreement between the Caretaker Committee Chairmen loyal to Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the immediate past local government chairmen, who were loyalists of Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Governor Siminalayi Fubara had sworn in 23 newly elected local government chairmen in the state.
The exercise held at the Executive Council Chambers of the Government House in Port Harcourt, the state capital on Sunday, comes a day after the Rivers State Independent National Electoral Commission (RSIEC) conducted an election at the grassroots.
There was also an initial report that some individuals had attempted to barricade the Port Harcourt City LGA secretariat earlier on Monday, when the Chairman, Ezebunwo Ichemati tried to access the council secretariat.
The crisis was, however, allegedly foiled when the men sighted the chairmen, councillors and supporters arriving at the council.
Ichemati was later seen supervising the clearing of overgrown grasses and cleaning of the council and other facilities within the premises.
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Rivers State Local Government Ballot Indicates Citizens Are Tired Of Emperors
The PDP chieftain asserted Gov. Fubara had no alternative but to go ahead with the voting when his political party, the PDP, withdrew from the exercise.
A leading figure of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State, Austin Okpara, asserts the achievement of the conduct of the October 5, 2024 local government election in the oil-rich state shows the residents of the state are tired of oppression.
“What it portends is that Rivers people are tired of oppression, Rivers people are tired of emperorship, Rivers people are tired of dictatorship,” he said on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics programme.
“The difference now is that we have a governor who wants to serve and not be served; not a governor who Adolf Hitler is his mentor or (Donald) Trump.
“Rivers people feel liberated; Rivers people are happy, they came out in their numbers to vote and they are excited.”
Okpara, a former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, knocked ex-governor Nyesom Wike for trying to control the structures of the PDP and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.
“A man wants to control APC structure, he wants to be in control of PDP structure, in a state? How do you explain that?” he queried.
Okpara applauded Governor Siminalayi Fubara for defying all odds to hold the local government election in the state despite the withdrawal of the PDP and the APC.
“We should give credit to Governor Fubara because by the end of the month, any state that does not have (a) democratically elected local government structure will not receive money. What’s the implication? It means that civil servants at the local government level will not be paid? Families will be deprived.
“So, Governor Fubara was helpless in this situation, sacrificed and ensured that rather than go on a party line, let there be an election so that the state would continue to benefit from (FAAC allocations).”
‘Fubara Didn’t Engage In Anti-Party Activities’
At the end of the LG poll on Saturday, the Action People’s Party (APP) won 22 chairmanship positions out of 23 in the oil-rich state, leaving the Action Alliance (AA) with one seat. Fubara swore in the winners on Sunday.
Okpara said Fubara had no option but to proceed with the election when his party, the PDP, opted out of the exercise.
He said, “We cannot describe that as an anti-party because his party where he belonged. If you listen to his speech today (Sunday), he said he is still a member of the Peoples Democratic Party and his party opted out of the election. How do you explain that? A PDP state? His party opted out so he decided to hold the election.”
Okpara, a former ally of Wike, said he dumped the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and moved to Fubara’s camp because of ideological differences.
“We were political associates but now we are no longer are,” he said, noting that the point of disagreement was when Wike supported the APC in the 2023 presidential election at the expense of the PDP.
Okpara also stressed that the election in the state showed that peaceful polls can be conducted in Nigeria without the police.
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PDP Secures 30 Of Thirty-One Local Government Area Seats In Akwa Ibom State
The electoral body, which announced the outcomes of the October 5 LG poll, also indicated that the All Progressives Congress claimed one local government area.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) won thirty of the thirty-one council leadership roles in the October 5, 2024 council election in Akwa Ibom State.
The Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission (AKISIEC) made this known on Sunday.
The electoral body, which made public the outcomes of the Oct 5 Local Government election, also indicated that the APC won one council.
In light of the successful conduct of the poll, everything is ready for newly chosen local government leaders to be officially appointed on Oct 7, 2024, at 8 am at the Government House Banquet Hall, Uyo, in the State capital.
This was stated in a official communication authorized by the Secretary to Akwa Ibom State Government (SSG), Enobong Uwah.
The release mentioned that Governor Umo Eno would officiate the event in the attendance of invited attendees.
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Bauchi Governor Witnesses As Governor Fubara Swears In Twenty-Two Action Peoples Party Leaders, Other As LG Heads
The River State governor, who assured Mohammed that he remains a member of the PDP, said desperate circumstances demands drastic measures.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara has sworn in 23 recently selected local government chairmen in Rivers State.
The event took place at the Council Chambers of the Government House in Port Harcourt the state capital, on Sunday, occurring a day after the RSIEC conducted an election at the grassroots.
The occasion was graced by Governor of Bauchi State Bala Mohammed, who is also the Leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum.
The governor conveyed satisfaction at the success of the LG election, stating it requires the help of God to get through the past few days.
He also appreciated President Tinubu for being a democrat.
Governor Fubara, who assured Mohammed that he is still a member of PDP, nevertheless, stated that desperate circumstances demands drastic measures. According to him, what his administration did with the support of the people was to salvage the local government councils.
He said he would not go in the ways of his opponent by being confrontational to protect the assets of the state and cause a breakdown of law and order.
He advised the new chairmen to see themselves as servants and not emperors.
He said the local government areas need development and charged them to work for the people who are the real political structure.
Earlier on Sunday, RSIEC issued certificates of return to the newly elected local government chairmen.
After an exercise held amid heightened tension, the Action People’s Party (APP) won 22 chairmanship positions out of 23 in the oil-rich state.
However, the state electoral umpire suspended the declaration of results for Etche Local Government Area (LGA) because the collation is ongoing.
The RSIEC chairman, Adolphus Enebeli, who declared the result on Saturday, also said that announcement for the 319 councillorship seats will be announced alongside that of the Etche Chairmanship position when collations are concluded.
But a day after the election, RSIEC declared Uzodinma Nwafor of the Action Alliance (AA) as the winner of the election in Etche Local Government Area.
He described the election as free, fair, and credible, despite all odds. According to him, polls were closed at 3 pm and recorded a large turnout of voters.
Enebeli saluted the patriotism of the residents who turned out to vote.
The declaration of the results was observed by members of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), chairmen of the state’s independent electoral bodies across the country, and members of the Nigerian Bar Association who acted as observers in the polls.
He said the commission “adopted the principle of bi-location because of the exigencies” they found themselves.
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Local Government Poll: Rivers People Are Determined, Opposed Authoritarianism
Atiku commended the citizens of the oil-rich state for their resilience in the despite challenges.
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar on Sunday lauded the newly completed local government election in the state, saying the voters are resolute in resisting oppression.
After a tense election, the Action Peoples Party (APP) swept 22 of the 23 local government areas in the state. However, the Action Alliance (AA) won just a single LGA – Etche LGA.
With the completion of the local government election in Rivers State, the specter of political pressure and legal manipulation have disappeared, paving the way for the crucial task of governance to start in the State.
Reacting to the outcome, Atiku commended the people of the oil-rich state for “their steadfastness in the face of adversity, courageously ensuring that yesterday’s election unfolded with peace and integrity.”
“As prophesied, it has now been revealed that the citizens of Rivers are astute and resolute, unwavering in their rejection of any form of political oppression, harassment, or the machinations of self-serving godfathers,” he stated.
“As I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the newly elected local government leaders, I urge them to wear the welfare of the people as their foremost badge of honour and shun tyranny and delusional ambition in their political endeavours.”
Read the entire declaration underneath:
With the conclusion of the local government election in Rivers State, the shadows of political intimidation and judicial chicanery have dissipated, paving the way for the noble pursuit of governance to commence in the State.
From the bustling heart of Port Harcourt to the tranquil shores of Onne, the populace has spoken in harmonious unison, affirming that nothing can better democracy.
As prophesied, it has now been revealed that the citizens of Rivers are astute and resolute, unwavering in their rejection of any form of political oppression, harassment, or the machinations of self-serving godfathers.
As I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the newly elected local government leaders, I urge them to wear the welfare of the people as their foremost badge of honour and shun tyranny and delusional ambition in their political endeavours.
Moreover, I commend the resilient people of Rivers State for their steadfastness in the face of adversity, courageously ensuring that yesterday’s election unfolded with peace and integrity.
I must also applaud Governor Fubara, @SimFubaraKSC, for his unwavering commitment to the people’s interests, safeguarding the sanctity of the local government elections even amidst provocative challenges.
In the grand tapestry of this election, it is ultimately the people who emerge victorious, their sacred right to choose their leaders firmly upheld within the framework of our democratic process. -AA
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Ninth Senate President Ahmad Lawan Launches Intensive Care Unit In Yobe State
The Intensive Care Unit which was constructed by Lawan is the 2nd in Nigeria, with the 1st situated in Ekiti State.
Former Senate President, Lawan had officially opened a new ICU at the Specialist Hospital, Gashua.
The ICU which was established by Lawan is the 2nd in the country, with the first based in Ekiti State.
Lawan, who is the senator for Yobe North, during the commissioning also donated a new ambulance to the hospital to allow it to handle emergencies.
Addressing attendees at the event, Lawan stated the intensive care unit was built out of his dedication to improving healthcare results, as well as fulfilling the pressing need for improved healthcare services in his senatorial district.
He said, “As a representative of the people of Yobe North Senatorial District, I have witnessed firsthand the pressing need for enhanced healthcare services in our communities.
“The absence of adequate critical care facilities has resulted in countless preventable deaths and immeasurable suffering. The realisation of this ICU today is a significant step towards addressing this challenge.”
He disclosed that the ICU is equipped with the latest medical technology and staffed by highly skilled healthcare professionals.
“It features advanced ventilation systems, patient monitors, and life-saving equipment that will enable us to provide the highest level of care to critically ill patients. From victims of road accidents to those suffering from severe infections, ailments or respiratory distress, this ICU will serve as a source of hope for our people”, Senator Lawan added.
He commended the Governor of Yobe State, Mai Buni, for prioritising healthcare and providing several medical facilities across the state.
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Federal Government To Begin Repatriation Of Nigerian Citizens From Lebanon, Indicates Numerous Reluctant To Evacuate
In a statement, the Foreign Affairs Ministry said though some Nigerians have expressed interest in being evacuated, a good number of them are unwilling to do so.
The FG declares it will soon start the return of Nigerians from Lebanon, in light of the tensions between Israel and the Hezbollah.
In a statement, the Foreign Affairs Ministry stated although some Nigerians have shown interest in being evacuated, a significant portion of them are disinclined to do so.
This spintax format allows for multiple variations of the article while maintaining the core information. Here’s one possible variation that could be generated from this spintax:
“According to a release, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs declared although some Nigerians have expressed interest in being repatriated, a significant portion of them are reluctant to do so.
The Nigerian Government announces it will shortly commence the return of Nigerians from Lebanon, in light of the hostilities between Israel and the Hezbollah.
As per an announcement, the Foreign Affairs Ministry stated though some Nigerians have shown interest in being brought back, a considerable amount of them are disinclined to do so.”
“In the light of the deteriorating security situation in Lebanon, the Government has activated emergency protocols to ensure the swift and safe evacuation of our
citizens back home as soon as possible,” the ministry’s spokesman Eche Abu-Obe said in a Saturday statement.
He said the ministry is working with the president, the National Emergency Management Agency, the Department of State Services, the National Intelligence Agency, the Nigerian Immigration Service, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, and other relevant bodies to ensure the safe return of the country’s citizens from Lebanon.
“Presently, about 500 Nigerians have registered with the Mission, however, there are more than 2000 Nigeria citizens residing in the country. Even though most of them have not indicated a willingness to return home in spite of the persuasion by our Embassy, we will continue to do everything to ensure the safety of our citizens,” the statement read.
“The Ministry is pleased to report that no life has been lost. In view of the commendable efforts made by the Embassy, working in concert with the leadership of the Nigerian community to evacuate fellow Nigerians from
Southern Lebanon the epicenter of the conflict to Beirut, the administration of President Tinubu is making arrangements to send a C-130 Aircraft or any other available flight for the evacuation exercise.”
SEE THE COMPLETE TEXT UNDERNEATH:
Further to the last statement issued on the evacuation of Nigerians from Lebanon, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to elucidate on the information contained therein. In this connection, the Federal Government of Nigeria has commenced evacuation procedures for Nigerian citizens living in Lebanon, following the escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.
The Administration of HE Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, wishes to reiterate that the safety and well- being of its citizens remains its top priority. In the light of the deteriorating security situation in Lebanon, the Government has activated emergency protocols to ensure the swift and safe evacuation of our citizens back home as soon as possible.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with the Presidency, National Emergency Management Agency, Department of State Services, National Intelligence Agency, Nigerian Immigration Service, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, and other relevant bodies, is coordinating the evacuation exercise to ensure the safe return of Nigerians from Lebanon.
Our Embassy in Beirut has been issuing several advisories since the conflict started for our citizens to stay indoors and follow local authorities’ instructions as well as appeal to those who have not registered with the Embassy, to do so through Email: info@mfa.gov.ng.
Presently, about 500 Nigerians have registered with the Mission, however, there are more than 2000 Nigeria citizens residing in the country. Even though most of them have not indicated a willingness to return home in spite of the persuasion by our Embassy, we will continue to do everything to ensure the safety of our citizens.
The Ministry is pleased to report that no life has been lost. In view of the commendable efforts made by the Embassy, working in concert with the
leadership of the Nigerian community to evacuate fellow Nigerians from Southern Lebanon the epicenter of the conflict to Beirut, the administration of President Tinubu is making arrangements to send a C- 130 Aircraft or any other available flight for the evacuation exercise.
The Nigerian government urges all citizens living In Lebanon not to resist evacuation because the ongoing conflict may escalate and appeals for cooperation with the evacuation process and follow safety guidelines. Nigeria appreciates the understanding of the international community and will continue to monitor the situation.
Signed:
Amb. Eche Abu-Obe
Spokesperson
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Saturday, 5th October, 2024