70th Birthday: Uloho sues for Urhobo unity, lauds Omo-Agege, others

MattyDemesBlog

Correspondent:

Ebifunlayefa Seriala

Ughelli -  Olorogun Austin Oghenevwogaga Uloho, yesterday, at his Ughelli country home, Ughelli North local government area of Delta state,  called on Urhobo nation to embrace unity of purpose as one undivided entity in order to take her rightful place as the most populated ethnic nationality in Delta State.

Uloho who made this call while speaking to newsmen during his 70th birthday ceremony, said it was high time the Urhobos' wake up and take her pride of place in the scheme of things instead of this syndrome of disunity that has eaten Urhobo so deep like a canker warm.

Uloho who was at a time executive member of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU), umbrella body of Urhobo nation as 2nd Vice President General, lamented how Urhobo got into this, saying that until "Urhobo retraced her steps, it will continue to play a second fiddle because of the disunity that has destroyed them as a people".

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He pointed out that lack of trust and pull-him-down syndrome are the major challenges that had caused hatred, division and disunity in Urhobo nation and appealed to all leaders of class to consider Urhobo interest first before personal one as a family.

Speaking further, Uloho said, "We need to go back to the drawing board and see where we get it wrong, correct it and take our rightful position and this is why l want to appeal to our well respected leaders to keep politics aside and come to a round table and start discussing how we can reposition Urhobo for progress, growth and development.

While thanking God for his 70th birthday, Uloho used the medium to commend His Excellency, Deputy President of the Senate, Obarisi Ovie Omo-Agege, Engr. Mathew Edevbie, the Chief of Staff to Delta State Government House, Chief David Edevbie, Ughelli North Council Chairman, Hon. Godwin Adode, St. Michael and Holy Spirit Reverend fathers who celebrated the thanksgiving mass and a host of others for celebrating with him.

"I was shocked when I saw the whole compound filled to capacity with people from within and outside Delta state and it gives me real joy seeing my people by me while celebrating my 70th birthday, it was a divine grace and thank God for his mercies upon me and my family."

My dream is to make FUPRE a world class University - Prof. Rim-Rukeh(Vice Chancellor of Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun).

MattyDemesBlog

Prof. Engr. Akpofure Rim-Rukeh (FNES), is the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, FUPRE, Delta State   

In this interview with our correspondent, Prof. Akpofure Rim-Rukeh, spoke on his 100 days in office and his dream to make FUPRE a World-Class University.

Ques: Prof, today marks your 100 days since you assumed office as the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, what would you count as some of your achievements?

Ans: My first 100 days in office have become the traditional yardstick of a leader's early achievements in office in the recent times.  

I believe that the first 3 months in any new leadership role is vital to listen and learn, and to start setting the stage for future successes.

On the 4th of May, 2020 I took over the mantle of leadership as the 4th substantive Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun and today marks the first hundred days in office.

And by the special Grace of God we have recorded some measurable achievements and thes wouldn't have been possible without our collective efforts.

In achieving this dream, we have to prepare a Blue-Print for Accelerated Growth and Development of the University. This document would form the major road map of the administration over the next five years.

   

Within our 100 days in Office, we signed two research related memoranda of understanding (MOUs). The first memorandum of understanding (MOU) is with WELTEK Research Ltd with the intent to carry out research that leads to innovation in petroleum refining and petrochemical industry 

The second memorandum of understanding (MOU) is with Onose Deep Oil and Gas Limited to promote technology transfer in technical areas in the Oil and Gas Sector. The MOUs formalized a long relationship between the two Companies and will result in several interdisciplinary projects over the next five years.

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Ques: We could remember vividly that while handing over to you, your predecessor did complained about poor funding of the institution, having resumed office, what is your take on it?

Ans: In Achieving increased funding driving, we have strategised on ways to increase funding to University by increase income from commercial activities by venturing into businesses such as; FUPRE Microfinance Bank, FUPRE Water, Animal Production Venture, Fisheries and Aquaculture, FUPRE Publishing House, and FUPRE Bookshop. 

Ques: So how do you intend to enhance the growth of the institution in Achieving the scope of the world class University?

Ans: We will achieving this by Attracting Regional/International Faculty and Students: And to this end, we have established “A Directorate of International Development” charged with the responsibilities of (i) Developing a comprehensive policy aimed at recruiting, retaining and supporting international staff and students.

Also, we developing strategic security plan critical for the smooth running of the University with plans to developing an international standard accommodation facilties for student and academic staff to promote engagement, promoting student exchange and teaching partnerships to joint research on global issues. 

In Achieving our set goals, we working towards Increasing University and Industry Relationship and today FUPRE have been admitted into the Education and Training Sectorial Working Group of the Nigerian Content Consultative Forum (NCCF) of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board. 

Ques: What are your plans in maintaining a cordial relationship with staff?

Ans; On Staff Matters and as part of our effort to hunt for academic talent by utilising a robust and transparent recruitment and selection process that would ensure that we recruit the right people into the right job at the right time, the recruitment process is on-going. 2020 promotion exercise is ongoing and we are presently concluding on the reward system for staff for the purpose of encouragement. 

Ques: There have been some shortcomings on the availability of space for staff, classrooms and others, so what will you do to addressing the chortag?

Ans: On Physical and Infrastructural Facilities, we have introduced the Policy of Naming University Facilities: The Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun do not have any tradition of naming University properties, academic and non-academic programs, and facilities in honor of persons or entities that have made important financial contributions to enable the teaching, research and public service mission of the University.   

However, today the policy for the Naming of University Facilities duly approved by the University Governing Council and the Finder’s Fee Policy: Available in the University is the policy for Finder’s Fee duly approved by the University Governing Council. 

Ques: As one and only Petroleum institution in Nigeria and Africa countries, how do you intend to secure synergy and a good working relationship that is cut across the board?

Ans: In order to increase partnership in our public private partnership (PPP) Built-Operate and Transfer (BOT) Model “A Directorate for Public Private Partnership” have been created.  Also available in the University is the policy for PPP based on Built-Operate-Transfer (BOT) duly approved by the University Governing Council. 

Examples of PPP projects available are; Construction of Cafeteria services for students, Construction of a building to serve as Senior Staff Club, Construction of a building to serve as Junior Staff Club, Construction of Post Graduate Students Hostel, Construction of Hostel for International Students, Construction of two Female Students Hostel (1000 Capacity Bed Space each).

Construction of three Male Students Hostels (1000 capacity Bed space each), Construction of ICT Building/Centre, Construction of Building to serve as University Printing Press, Construction of University Guest House, Construction of University Shopping Mall, Design and Construction of FUPRE Demonstration Primary School, Design and Construction of FUPRE Demonstration Secondary School, Construction of Building for FUPRE Business School and Construction of University Liaison at Abuja. 

Ques: What would you say on infrastructural development as you mark your 100 days in office?

Ans: There are a lot of on-going Infrastructural Development of the University by Federal Ministry of Education (NEEDS ASSESSMENT).

The on-going projects funded by the NEEDS Assessment fund are; construction of 1000 capacity University convocation arena, construction of 500 capacity University Auditorium, 750 capacity students hostel, sporting facilities and a number of classrooms and another on-going Infrastructural Development of the University by (TETFund)

is the Phase II College of Science and Phase II Entrepreneurship Building.

Also there is a vhange of Name of College of Technology and this is in line with the growing trend in the Engineering & Technology world, we have also received approval from the NUC for the change of our College of Technology to College of Engineering & Engineering Technology.  This will enable us expand our academic horizon into Engineering and Technology programmes.

Ques: Can you tell us some of your school academic programmes, both the new ones introduction?

Ans: We have prepared of the curriculum for the following academic programmes which includes Department of Petrochemical Engineering; Department of Natural Gas Engineering; Department of Computer Engineering; Department of Statistics, Department of Science, Laboratory and Technology and Department of Health, Environment, Safety and Security.  

Commencement of the College of Petroleum Management and Policy Studies and Department of Civil Engineering is awaiting regulatory approval. 

We have taken steps to prepare curriculum that will lead to the award of professional Master’s Degree in Engineering Management, Oil & Gas Management, m Environmental Policy and Regulation and Fuel & Energy.  

We have also taken steps to pursue programmes leading to the award of professional certificates in Supply Chain Management, Environmental Modelling Energy Finance, Pipeline Engineering, Environmental Corrosion, Environmental Risk Management, Process Safety Management, Environmental Scarcity and National Security, Carbon Capture Market and Climate Change Dynamics anGas Reservoir Improvement Techniques 

Also, Approved Research Policy

Within this period under review, we put final touches to the comprehensive policy that will guide the University researches and obtained approval from the University Council.

Ques: You have highlighted your vision but to achieve all these, what are your likely plans and challenges?

Ans: No doubt that as you make plans, there are likely challenges and the most and obstacle is from your house as many people around you will not want you to succeed but in this case, my staff and colleagues are all supportive.

When you make a plan and there are people who will be ready to fight you, it will be difficult for you to achieve it but in this University, I don't think there is anybody like that because they have keyed into my visions as they are very supportive to me 

In the area of finance, that is how are we going to source for funds is the only area we might likely have challenge but there are some good organizations that have confidence in us which we are going to approach and they will likely help us.

Ques: Sir you have talked about some new courses to commence in the University, what are  the process in place for accreditation of the new courses?

Ans: Like as I said earlier, introduction of new courses take process, the first thing is to prepare curriculum for the new courses to be taking to National University Commission (NUC) for approval. Before approval, there is what we call resources verification and that is what we are preparing for now.As I have said, we have prepared the curriculum for the new courses and programmes which we have sent to NUC.

In all the new courses, they were carved out from existing programmes and there are qualified lecturers for them. For example, Computer Engineering is from Electrical/Electronics Engineering which has Professors and Doctorates in the department and also Petrochemical Engineering is from Chemical Engineering where we have Professors of Chemistry and Doctorates in the department.

Again, we are now recruiting academic staff which are mostly competent persons in the field. From our advertisement, we have received 19,000 applications which are mostly Professors and Doctorates in the areas needed. I believe,by the time NUC will come for accreditation, there would be no problem.

PLANS TO RELEASE PROPAGANDA AGAINST NDDC FOILED: Deputy Senate President, House Of Reps Member, Tunji-Ojo, Others Fingered

Source:

Opera News Hub.

MATTY DEMES

The Niger Delta Development Commission NDDC yesterday raised alarm over alleged plans by the Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege, House of Representatives Committee Chairman of NDDC Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and others to release a welter of propaganda and lies against the Commission and its Interim Management Committee, designed to derail efforts to strengthen the NDDC in order to meet its Mandate of the sustainable development of the Niger Delta region.

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In a Press release by the Commission through it's Director of Cooperate Affairs, Charles Odili, said over the past few months, the Niger Delta Development Commission has come under all forms of orchestrated and savage media and political propaganda, lies and attacks, designed to derail the investigations ordered by President Muhammadu Buhari into its activities in the past 20 years. 

He said; "These destructive attacks, spearheaded by powerful politicians from the Niger Delta who have being named as complicit in the wanton corruption and carnage in the NDDC, are intended to undermine, sabotage and ultimately scuttle the ongoing forensic audit".

"And these attacks, against the Commission and the Interim Management Committee, IMC, established by President Buhari to manage and administer the Commission during this investigation and audit, have continued unabated."

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The statement reads; "The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has received intelligence reports that the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on NDDC, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and the Deputy Senate President, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, have concluded plans to release a welter of propaganda and lies against the Commission and its Interim Management Committee, designed to derail efforts to strengthen the NDDC in order to meet its Mandate of the sustainable development of the Niger Delta region".

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"The Nigerian public should kindly disregard whatever this group intends to, and will, bring out today. The intention is clear and has remained so over the past few months: to raise questions about the integrity and intentions of the IMC in order to undermine the outcome of the forensic audit, as well as aspects of its result already made public which show a sustained and unconscionable looting of the Commission. We wish to reiterate that these attacks are dubious and full of lies."

It further read; "They are indeed part of efforts to legitimise the wanton depletion of the capacity of the NDDC to meet its Mandate to the Niger Delta region, and serve her long-suffering people. For instance, there are ongoing efforts by Hon. Tunji-Ojo to rationalise the 10 questionable contracts in Ondo State issued to him in recent past and backdated. Those efforts cannot cover the illegality of those awards."

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The efforts of co-conspirators and co-travellers in the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs have failed in the past. This will fail as well. The Niger Delta Development Commission urges well-meaning and discerning Nigerians and the entire public to wait for the results of the forensic audit. The revelations in that audit, based on what is being unearthed already, will shake the Niger Delta region, and indeed, all of Nigeria, to its foundations. That is what they are fighting tooth and nail to undermine, sabotage and scuttle.

And this behaviour is at the bottom of the perennial under-performance of the Commission, which necessitated the directive by President Muhammadu Buhari that a forensic audit be instituted to clean the augean stable and restore the integrity of the Commission and its capacity to address the poverty in, and underdevelopment of, the Niger Delta region.

For instance, between Hon. Tunji-Ojo, the Chairman, Senate Committee on the Niger Delta, Senator Peter Nwaoboshi and the Deputy Senate President, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, the money allocated for the Anchor Borrowers Programme of the Federal Government to grow agriculture in the region was reduced from N10 billion to N200m in the 2019 budget. This has effectively undermined that programme, and considering the importance of building regional agriculture, creating jobs and wealth for the people, this cannot be excused.

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Also, the money allocated for the partnership between the Commission and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) was reduced from N5bn to N100m, while the money allocated for the three major hospitals in the region was reduced from N5bn to N50m.They were instead transferred to procuring plastic chairs and desks and phony training programmes which they have implemented in the past. The budget is there for all to see, study and investigate.

Since the establishing of the IMC by President Buhari, over 50 cases have been instituted against the Commission, to derail it and its activities, in this very important moment of strengthening and redirection. All the propaganda and lies unleashed in the past have failed and these will fail as well.

Be that as it may, the IMC has decided to ignore them, and their distractions, and move on, with the important task of overseeing the NDDC during its forensic audit, completing and commissioning the headquarters complex on Eastern Bye-Pass, Port Harcourt, as well as completing all regional projects of the Commission. The task of rebuilding the NDDC so that it can meet its obligation and mandate of developing the Niger Delta and improving the living conditions of the people is far too important to be ignored. The people of the Niger Delta region deserve no less.

NDDC: "The IMC is indeed a stroke that has broken the Carmel's back"~Comrade Mudiaga.

MATTY DEMES

Warri -  Human rights activist and member of  the  Warri Masses Conscious Group (WMG) in the person of  Comrade Mudiaga,  has advised the  good people of Niger Delta to be sensitive and beware of the tactics being used by corrupt politicians  to dent the image of members of the Interim Management Committee and other well meaning citizens that are working earnestly for the betterment of the region.

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Expressing himself  via a release to officials of MattyDemesblog dated Sunday 23rd August, 2020, Activist Mudiaga has stated that "despite the alledged eagerness of the some members National Assembly to thwart efforts made by the forensic audit team to investigate operations in the NDDC under the auspice of the Interim Management Committee (IMC), the IMC is  a God sent to NDDC as it as has helped to reveal several fund missappropriations , under the disguise of executing projects in the Niger Delta region.

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Further highlighted in his release, "it is evident with several revelations that several crooky individuals  has been using the Niger Delta Development Commission as  their  personal investment to loot away funds set aside to run the commission. But good a thing, Dr. Cairo Ojougboh(Executive Director of Projects,NDDC) who was appointed alongside others by Chief Godswill Akpabio (Minister of Niger Delta Affairs), is doing a tremendous work in order to checkmate how funds allocated for projects were being used  in the commission in tandem with projects executed". Hence, "i Comrade Mudiaga is advising the  people of the Niger Delta  region  not to pay attention to  dubious Politicians  bent on distracting the good works of the IMC by instigating the mind of the masses against the  Audit team(IMC)" he added.

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I would not fail to emphasize on the  medium used by some  politicians  to sabotage the Forensic Audits  activities, precisely by denting the mind of the populace in order to frustrate the efforts of the Honorable Minister Chief Akpabio, Dr. Cairo and the other members of the Interim Management Committee. For example, these individuals often penetrate innocent  minds via social media platforms like Facebook, Tweeter, Instagram and many others by posting fake allegations about the honorable Minister of Niger Delta Affairs and the IMC.

But it's fortunate that the good people of the Niger Delta Region are beginning to discover these tactics most expecially with results achieved by the IMC despite the stones".He added.

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Further highlighted, "it is indeed disgusting to see  how some  members of the NASS have positioned themselves as  saints whose garments  are as white as snow, despite the unapproved state of the NDDC's 2020 budget, which can also be obviously streamlined to same people  trying to stop the smooth running of NDDC simply because they are the ones to approve it".

"Come to think of it, why was there a  sudden uprise in the issue of  misappropriation of fund against the IMC just as the Forensic Audits was  about to perk despite the commission's operation since the year 1999?. Or  would the National Assembly most expecially the bad eggs in the whole tell the good people of the Niger Deltans that they never suspect anything earlier rather pointing accusatorily fingers against the IMC because of the possible implicating task they were carrying out". 

"Ok, let me assume they are trying to play the balance and check by accusing the IMC; still, they never  mentioned anything about abandoned projects  all over the region prior the inception of the IMC. Is it not a clear indication of fowl play and  that the IMC has blocked most of their looting holes? Indeed.

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It is on this regard,  I encourage the people of the Niger Delta to keep on supporting the interim Management Committee(IMC) so as to enable them carryout the good work that has been assigned to them by President Muhammedu Buhari because the IMC is indeed a stroke that has broken the Camel’s back”.

"Meanwhile, i would not hesitate to use this opportunity to thank our able President, for not paying attention to their Fallacious deceptive tongues; rather giving the IMC the full support to keep on the good work", he concluded.

IMC "II NOT SUCCUMB TO BLACKMAIL BECAUSE OUR MISSION & VISION TO CHANGE THE NDDC's NARRATIVES REMAINS PRIORITIZED~ OJOUGBOH

MATTY DEMES 

The NDDC's Executive Director of Project, Dr Cairo Ojougboh has recently said that the Members of the Interim Management Committee, Niger Delta Developement Commission will not succumb to blackmail in its quest to ensure that the Niger Delta Developement Commission is repositioned towards actualising its Goals.

Dr Ojougboh who declared this through his Special Adviser on Media & Communication, Sir. Gabriel Choba made it clear that "the INTERIM MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE shares with President Muhammadu Buhari, his vision to RESCUE the commission". It is on this regard, he cautioned critics to be mindful of Hate Speeches and be constructive in their criticisms so as to be free from all legal actions.

The EDP Boss who also highlighted further, has said that "he being an indigene of one of the Niger Delta states, a region that has been deprived of SIGNIFTICANT DEVELOPMENTS over the years partly because NDDC which should have been the driver of DEVELOPMENTS in the region has been given to petty Politics. Hence, “I dare say the TIME has COME for us to embrace CHANGE for the sake of the people in the region who are subjected to untold Hardship". he said.

Emphasizing further , “We are on the same page with Mr President  to see that, the NDDC is being  REPOSITIONED AND RESCUED  as appropriate. As such, I am on the good side of history to partake in this worthy course because it is a responsibility and this is exactly what i will do.” he noted.

NDDC PROBE: NASS MEMBER'S ARE THE CRIMINALS ~ OJOUGBOH

MATTY DEMES

The Executive Director (Projects) of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr Cairo Ojougboh, recently damned the probe of the commission by the National Assembly, where it was alleged that lawmakers ruined the AGENCY for 20 years through PROXY CONTRACT awards. He said the probe was masterminded to witchhunt and dissuade members of the Interim Management Committee (IMC) of the commission from delivering on its terms of assignment. He said the National Assembly was most disturbed that the office of the Minister of the Niger Delta was calling the shot at the commission, which to them, was unusual.

Ojougboh spoke at the palace of the Asagba of Asaba, Obi Chike Edozien, in Asaba, Delta State, recently, before inaugurating the POLICE EQUIPMENT FUND, worth N450 million. He alleged that the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federal (SGF) and the National Assembly had reportedly liquidated the commission in the past 20 years.

He said the IMC came to being to SANITISE the SYSTEM by MOPPING-UP the messy situation the commission has been plunged into. He said: “I don’t believe I should play politics in the palace. The truth must be told. For 20 years, there was nothing on ground to show for the existence of the commission. IMC is out to make a DIFFERENCE, this they don’t want. The money they told 1,411 persons to refund was paid to very many persons. “The Senators are the contractors of NDDC. As we speak, all the crimes they perpetrated in the past 20 years in NDDC were done through the office of the SGF. We have the files of how the National Assembly ruined the commission.” “We will not allow this criminality to be returned to that office.

 

They tampered with many budgets of the commission, that is CRIMINAL? What kind of country are we? Their extent of CRIMINALITY is to be awarding contracts to themselves. We have the record's to show how the NASS through it Chairmen ruined the commission. “We have it through Mutu (Nicholas, a Delta House of Representatives members), to Manager (James, the Senator for Delta South), to Nwaoboshi (Peter, the Senator for Delta North). Most of the payments we made were to National Assembly nominees.” “I have not stolen any money. The money paid into my account was for the trip i was to embark upon but was postponed as a result of COVID-19.”

He urged the monarch to protect the interest of the Anioma nation, the oil producing area of Delta state and the Niger Delta region and prevent the National Assembly from subsuming the commission under the office of the SGF again. The monarch, who described Ojougboh as a “well-known and dedicated fighter in Nigeria politics”, said he perceived something more than probe to the impasse between the National Assembly and the commission.

WE "II FOCUS MORE ON THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR TO CREATE JOB OPPORTUNITIES AND EMPOWERMENTS FOR YOUTHS TO MAKE THEMSELVES INDEPENDENT AND RELIABLE~ OJOUGBOH

MATTY DEMES

The Acting Executive Director of Project NDDC, Dr Cairo Ojougboh has recently appraised hope of alleviating the  burden accompained  with unemployment among youths in Edo state and in same vein given reasons to vote for the state's All Progressive Congress Governorship Candidate, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu.

While addressing YOUTHS on Saturday 8th, August'20 at the All Progressive Congress Governorship rally  for  Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu as the party's candidate in the forthcoming Election slated to hold 19th September'20, the EDP BOSS has said that the administration if voted in will drive it's focus more on the Youths precisely on employment and Job creation/ Empowerment, so as to engage the YOUTHS on Meaniful self reliance even in this era  of digitalization and  globalization.

Dr Ojougboh who emphasized on the importance of "YOUTHS SKILL ACQUISITION TRAINING", highlighted that YOUTHS are the Strength of any Nation and if you get it RIGHT with them, you have the NATION on the RIGHT path.

Seemingly,  the Interim Management Committee (IMC), will double it's efforts to engage more YOUTHS and all STAKEHOLDERS in the Niger Delta Region in Subsequent Training Programs where Youths will be self employed to add  value to the Socio-Economic developement of our environment in the nearest future; he further noted.

Speaking further, the EDP Boss has also stressed the need for the YOUTHS, MEN and WOMEN to Organize themselves in Co-operative groups so to enable them have easier access to fundings provided through MICRO FINANCE SUPPORT PROGRAMMES of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC); Noting that YOUTHS would be exposed to different trainings soon to prepare them to BENEFIT HIGH from the Commission’s TRAINING PROGRAMMES as the commission also will also equip them to be self-employed through Agricultural Programme amongst others.

Meanwhile, it is important to note that as the IMC aims for a better Niger Delta , the INTERIM MANAGEMENT C'TTEE cannot  spend without BUDGETARY APPROVAL. As such, the National Assembly should consider the timely passage of the NDDC 2020 budget into law to allow the commission meet up with her target inline with NEXT LEVEL AGENDA of President Mohammadu BUHARI led Federal Government, because, we cannot spend without budgetary approval. Hence , when that is done the Management Board will Immediately swing into action that will benefit all NIGER DELTANS from different prospect of Developing the region.

In conclusion he said: "I assure you on behalf of the Interim Management Committee that we will do everything possible to make sure that we touch the lives of everybody in the region to make a difference as expected. Noted that empowering the people was as important as executing Development Projects, since, according to him (EDP), “the people have to be alive and well to use the Projects.

NDDC : FORENSIC AUDIT IS THE WAY TO GO ~ Vincent Oshiagwu.

MATTY DEMES

Written by:

Vincent Oshiagwu.

Whether we accept it or not, the Forensic Audit ordered by President Muhammadu Buhari for the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, is the only solution to the many years of looting, rape and decay in the commission and challenges of underdevelopment in the Niger Delta region. 

It will be recalled that the Audit followed a request made by Governors of the nine Oil producing states sometime in April, 2019. 

The governors while lamenting the rot in the NDDC noted that the reason for the call for a proper forensic audit exercise is to help highlight areas of strength and weaknesses of the Commission. Indeed, It was a call described by many as "clarion".

This  call however, birthed the unrelenting and focused 3-man Interim Management Committee, IMC of the NDDC, made up of experienced, upright and intelligent polticians with untainted reputation and intact integrity; such as, Hon. Chief. Dr. Cairo Ojougboh and Prof. Pondei appointed by the President with a mandate to audit the commission and assuage the largely angry and disappointed people of the region.

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The president, having frowned at the rot and utter mismanagement of the NDDC over these long years, has through this forensic audit demonstrated how deeply committed he is to seeing accountability of stewardship that will rejig the commission and address the unfortunate paradox, aimed at serving the people of the Niger Delta region properly and adequately.

It is imperative at this point therefore, to emphatically state and note that the natural resources from the Niger Delta area makes Nigeria the sixth largest Oil producing nation in the world, yet well over sixty seven per cent ( 67) of the people live below the poverty line with accompanying parlous education , health , sanitation , job creation, water and infrastructure despite millions of naira annually budgeted into the Niger Delta Development Commission by the Federal Government since it's establishment about twenty years ago. 

Now, considering the magnitude of corruption in the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, where many contracts were awarded, even to some senators and House of Representative members from the Niger Delta states, paid for but not executed, will anyone on his right thinking cap have any reason to argue that the Forensic audit as solution to the perennial decay is not sacrosanct ? In my opinion, it is more than sacrosanct. 

In fact, to say the forensic audit is a timeless necessity and the best way to go for now is to clearly state the obvious even as members of the committee continues to reiterate their unyielding determination to manage the forensic audit of the NDDC in an extremely transparent manner.

On this backdrop, therefore, those thieves in our government whose interest it is to loot should now get ready to account for their stewardship and possibly face justice rather than the prevalent campagin of calumny and obnoxious political blackmail/ gimmick garnished-with-lies call for the heads of members of the Interim Management Committee, IMC. 

Viewing personaly, it is madness and the hight of insensitivity to the unsavouring plight of the people of the Niger Delta region for anyone to call for the scrapping of the Interim Management Committee, IMC; As members of the committee are doing great jobs and should be applauded, not vilified for the good job they are doing.  As such, those sponsoring media attacks on the Interim Management Committee, IMC, should know that Mr. President knew they ( corrupt criminal elements) will fight back to resist the forensic audit and will fight back at the right time.

For instance, these criminal politicians are gradually exposing themselves with their fears. They are so dead-scared of being called to account for their unholy stewardship, making it obvious that their action remains to derail the forensic audit ordered by President Muhammadu Buhari . Notwithstanding, whether they like it or not, the Forensic Audit/ Interim Management Committee is the way to go. 

Lastly, these  criminal persons in exalted political offices ought to have known before now that their actions were expected and a space created to accommodate their blackmail ab initio. 

When the Interim Management, IMC came in with the mandate to drive the forensic audit, it was well aware that it will have enemies but truth is people who have unjustly benefitted from the system will be brought to book. They are the same people fighting back. People like this don’t have any other arsenal other than to resort to the media because the media gives them space to vent their venom. 

Nonetheless,  it is a yes yes for forensic audit and the IMC.

MattyDemesblog....

Broadening the horizon.

Ovwian Community Election: Chief Daddy Osimini stands as the Best to rule as President General ~ Philip Onome

Matty Demes

Written by:

By Philip Onome

As the battle for who becomes the next President General of Ovwian Community in Udu Local Government Area gets tough, the cap of rulership seem to best fit Chief Godwin Daddy Osimini in the forthcoming Ovwian Community Election slated to hold on the 26th of December,2020.

Chief Osimini popularly Knonwn as Daddy, from findings stands as the best for the job ahead following his anticidents and successes recorded over the years in different serving capacities. 

Amongst those vying for the President General Position includes; Chief Godwin Daddy Osimini, Hon. Alfred Urukpe, Mr. Okubio and Albert Giagbolor respectively.

But from findings, it is obvious that Chief Osimini and Hon Urukpe tends to be the  major contenders in the struggle. 

However, feelers notwithstanding  Chief Godwin's oppossition has asserted that the Chief Godwin may clinch the seat of Ovwian Community President considering his humbleness, manifesto and willingness to serve his Community selflessly. 

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On the other hand, Hon Urukpe to whom many consider as Chief Godwin's major contender is being described by many as one with a pompous personality  due to his poor familiarization with people. 

To further describe Chief Godwin Daddy Osimini's personality as opposed to his major percieved contender, he is one  known by many to be a cool headed, an humble son of the soil who has the pains of his people at heart and one whom has continued to fight for the development of his Community over the years.

Seemingly, following the security, economic and unemployment bridge by successive administration of the community with large numbers of unemployed and unskilled Youths in the community, Chief Godwin Daddy Osimini in a chat with Journalists has said; " because I truly have the pains of my people at heart, I took time to know the major reasons our Community youths are being dropped out from work yearly in companies cited in the Community. 

Further stating, it is also evident that lack of ideas has also drastically reduced the economic strenght of the community.

Hence,  I have vowed to return sacked workers back to work, make negotiations for more employments of our  youths both men and women, provide great ideals to boost the economic system of the community and also attract more investment within a Short period of stay in office, if  elected as the President General of Ovwian Community come 26th December 2020". 

On Security, Chief Osimini has also promised to restore peace and security in the community and return Ovwian back to the days where residents could sleep with their two eyes closed, adding that security is one of the major reason for retrogression in the community but that will stop when he assumes Office in December 2020. 

On skill acquisition, the Humble Presidential Aspirant, further promised to create a skill acquisition programme for Ovwian Community throughout his term in office with provision of starter parks for beneficiaries/graduands from the Community. Noting that it  is a wake up call to stop youth restiveness and underdevelopment which has been in the increase over the years and has not been given attention to by successive administrations.

However, considering Chief Osimini's profile being one who hails from Uduvwurhie quarters of Ovwian community, having served as financial secretary Uduorho qauters, Financial secretary and vice Oghuvwie Chairman (Youth) Uduvwurhie quarters; If giving the opportunity to serve will make the best President General of Ovwian Community. Hence, a call for a mass support .

MattyDemesblog.....

Broadening the horizon.

Just in : Peaceful protest turns bloody as police allegedly kills one in Ozoro, Delta State~Matty Demes

Matty Demes

OZORO -  Following several  outcries,complaints and protest by members of the public, interest groups and concerned institutions on the rising  cases on police brutality, extrajudicial killings, harrassment and maltreatment , the residents of ozoro community in Delta State have been awakened to a "peaceful protest turned bloody as police allegedly kills one".

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Information which  reached our newsroom at about 10:05am this day 2nd August 2020, was that a young man whose identity is yet to be ascertained was alledgely killed by member (s) of the Nigeria Police Force yet to be identified too during a peaceful protest against police brutality in Ozoro around Ala square .

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Below however is an information obtained via an interview with an eye witness who pleaded anonymity during a chat session with Matty Demes delegate on arrival , viz:

Matty Demes:

"Can you please tell us what you know know about the event which led to the death of the deceased?"

Source :

"Well, the protest was about police harrasing and arresting boys . Most times what they do most especially if you are carrying dread , they would just hold you and tell you to bring your phone".

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Further speaking, "the next thing they do is take you to the police or the next thing they do is that they ask you to bring money. The young men being fed about the situation took it to the street with placards to protest so as to tell the Federal and State Governments about their pains and how the police are harrasing them over their rights and on that process, the police drove down the scene".

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"While trying to make an arrest precisely to apprehend the deceased, angry youths made attempts to restrict the apprehension which subsequently led to a forceful approach from the police and an inadvertent stab on the deceased thereby leading to his death".

Meanwhile, the Police was yet to confirm the incident aas efforts made to reach the authority prooved abortive upon arrival by the team.

MattyDemesBlog--------Broadning the horizon.

"The IMC must not relent, this FORENSIC AUDIT must be completed and those found wanting must be made to pay the price as a deterrent to others"~OJEMEH

Matty Demes

The major enemies of the current administrations are those instigating the NASS against the IMC, with a calculated attempt to disrupt the ongoing FORENSIC AUDIT, they pretend to be Strong supporters of Mr President and at the same time fighting, backstabbing the Government Appointees for their selfish reason.

The YOUTHS ACTIVIST Comr Ojemeh Emmanuel who gave the above assertion also pointed out that the Interim Management Committee of the NIGER DELTA DEVELOPEMENT COMMISSION will do BETTER if detractors will shelves their sword and take part of Peace added that the needed Change can only drive in a peaceful Environment

He therefore, urged the Interim Management Committee of the NDDC not to relent in their efforts to move the Agency of CORRUPTION free COMMISSION he noted.

 Mr Ojemeh, in a statement on Sunday, also advised the NDDC MANAGEMENT TEAM to ensure that the ongoing FORENSIC AUDIT of the Commission is taken to its logical conclusion.

He said efforts by CORRUPT POLITICIANS and some erring CONTRACTORS including Staff to frustrate the AUDIT exercise through cooked lies against members of the Interim Management Committee of the Commission should be resisted.

He challenged those he described as “faceless groups” behind insinuations that the current Management Team is allocating to themselves billions" to publish their facts, if any, or stop their blackmail attempt.

Going forward Ojemeh noted that the NDDC Interim Management Committee need the support of all, especially critical stakeholders in the region to succeed.

He said: “It is very sad that Niger Deltans especially some YOUTHS in the region have allowed themselves to be misled by CORRUPT POLITICIANS and erring CONTRACTORS who have been syphoning the patrimony of the Niger Delta through the NDDC.

These corrupt politicians and Contractors are enemies of the Niger Delta, they don’t want CHANGE; they want the status quo to remain so they can continue to fritter our wealth away, hence the Campaigns full of lies to detracts the Interim Management Committee from their mission drive and focused.

“They have thrown caution to the wind and are churning out outright lies through their proxies, hoping that their lies will stick in an effort to put a stop to the FORENSIC AUDIT that is being carried out in the NDDC.

The Interim Management Committee must not relent, this FORENSIC AUDIT must be completed and those found wanting must be made to pay the price as a deterrent to others.

“These corrupt politicians and contractors whose stock in trade is to get jobs from NDDC and after mobilization, abscond and abandon the project, have tried to compromise the IMC to no avail, they have now resorted to outright propaganda, blackmail and threat to life of Management Team Members, all in a bid to dissuade them from carrying out their mandate.

He said this is an opportunity to put the NDDC on the right part so that the average Niger Deltan can benefit from the NDDC as under her leadership, the NDDC will fulfill its mandate to the Niger Delta.

OJOUGBOH, OTHERS ATTEND OGBABURHON'S FUNERAL SERVICE

Matty Demes

Photo Credit: Mr Gabriel Choba

(SA Media and Communication, EDP NDDC)

The Acting Executive Director of Project, Niger Delta Developement Commission Dr. Cairo Ojougboh today on Saturday and other top government functionaries and politicians attend the burial ceremony of Late Hon. Chief Austin Ogbaburhon.

The burial ceremony which took place at Chief Ogbaburhon’s home town, Orhunwhorun, Udu local government area, Delta State was also, attended by Olorogun Jaro Egbo Ksc among others.

Dr. Ojougboh was among the first dignitaries to arrive Ogbaburhon’s country home being the venue of the funeral service for the late Chief  Ogbaburhon.

Dr. Ojougboh while feeding newsmen described late Ogbaburhon as principled, brave and “set an excellent example of leadership.” “He was a man of impeccable integrity,” “cerebral politician who did not play politics of bitterness.” Dr. Ojougboh said.