Omu Soars Higher As Family Finalises HRM Obi Dunkwu’s Burial Ceremonies For April 24 -27

The Family of Dunkwu in Okpanam, Oshimili North LGA of Delta State is pleased to announce that the burial ceremonies for Her Royal Majesty, Obi Martha Dunkwu will commence Wednesday 24th April, 2024, with the Traditional Rites at the Dunkwu Family compound, Obodogba, Okpanam community.

According to a press statement released by the Chief Mourner, Afamefuna Dunkwu-Okafor, noted that the traditional Rites will continue on Thursday 25th April, while the Night of Tributes will hold on Friday 26th at 4pm and the Memorial Farewell on Saturday 27th April, 2024, at 10am.

“It is pertinent to inform all who are coming to ensure they are beautifully dressed in our native Akwa Ocha attire or any other white cloth that matches the atmosphere of the moment.

“By this press statement, we are calling on all and sundry to join us celebrate our Mother To All and Mother Without Borders, and not mourn, because the beautiful and courageous Omu Anioma has soared higher to eternal glory.

Meanwhile, for the Night of Tributes which will be chaired by the erudite Desert Warrior, Chief Newton Jibunoh, interested persons who would want to share their experiences with Omu Dunkwu should contact any member of the Burial Committee for documentation.

Mrs. Theresa Enisuoh, Mother of Tantita’s Executive Director to be laid to rest Saturday April 27, in Bayelsa

All is now set for the burial of Mrs. Theresa Virginia Enisuoh, the mother of the Executive Director, Operations and Technical Services of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), Capt. Warredi Enisuoh, in Agbere, Sagbama Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, on Saturday, April 27th, 2024.

The matriarch of the popular Enisuoh family in Bayelsa State, died on Thursday, March 21st, at ripe age of 80 years.

The death of Mama Enisuoh, loved by all and sundry,who came through her path during her eventful sojourn on earth, has sent shock waves into people in Agbere and other neighbouring communities in Bayelsa state.

Known for her benevolence and kind-heartedness, especially towards the needy and those on the lower rung of the society, Mama Enisuoh lived a life of service to God and humanity.

Notable individuals and her kinsmen in Bayelsa state believed that she would be sorely missed because of her exemplary lifestyles and commitment to selfless service in aid of humanity.

To this end, the Chief Mourner, Warredi Enisuoh in conjunction with his siblings, is sparing no efforts to accord their beloved Mother, a befitting departure.

Findings revealed that adequate logistic arrangements have been made by the Enisuoh family to ensure a “talk of the town” burial rites for their late matriarch, which climaxed in her remains being laid to rest on Saturday, April 27th, 2024.

Already, notable citizens, especially top government officials at all levels and captains of industry are participating actively in the burial plans in honour of Warredi Enisuoh, who is regarded as the brain box of TSSNL, which has recorded widely acknowledged giant strides in the war against crude oil theft.

The cream-de-la-cream of the society have also indicated their readiness to be present at Agbere on Saturday, apparently to give support and succour to the grieving Warredi Enisuoh and his siblings.

The funeral arrangements signed by Captain Warredi Enisuoh, indicated that on Saturday, April 27th, 2024, her body would arrive at her father’s Compound, Zibomoni family for lying in state.

Thereafter,the remains would be taken to St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Agbere, for the funeral mass.

Continuing, Warredi Enisuoh in the statement, revealed that interment would come up thereafter at her brother’s compound, in the Bayelsa community.

A colourful reception has been packaged to acquit the invited guests with the hospitable lifestyles of the Bayelsans at Agbere Town Football Field.

Meanwhile, eminent citizens, especially top government officials and key players in the corporate world, have sent condolence messages to encourage and light up the spirits of Warredi Enisuoh and his siblings at this trying period.

Tributes have also been pouring in torrents to eulogise Mama Enisuoh, for her exemplary and disciplined spartan life.

Top on the roll call of those who have sent words of encouragement to Warredi Enisuoh include the Senator representing Anambra South Senatorial District in the Senate, Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, Chairman of TSSNL, Chief (Dr.) Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, celebrated football administrator and former Super Eagles Chief Coach, Samson Siasia, Managing Director of TSSNL, Chief Keston Pondi and Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) in the Niger Delta, Dr. Dennis Brutu Otuaro, the management of Inter-Atlas Synergy, among many others.

They all prayed for the repose of the souls of the Enisuoh matriarch and the fortitude, comfort and grace for Warredi Enisuoh and his siblings to bear her loss.

They urged members of the family to remain strong and resilient during this difficult time and take solace in the obvious fact that their mother lived fulfilled and worthy life.

Warri stands agog as SLA to Chief Ereyitom, Gbiwen celebrates their son, Oritsetemi Gbiwen’s dedication

By: Celedtine Ukah

It was a wonderful day in the Oil city of Warri, Delta State as the Senior Legislative Aide, SLA, to Hon. Chief Thomas Ereyitomi, the Member Representing Warri Federal Constituency, Barr. Alex Gbiwen celebrated the dedication of their Son, Baby Oritsetemi Peniel Gbiwen in grand style at the Word of Life Bible Church, International Gospel Centre, Warri.

From left: Hon. Chief Ereyitomi, Barr. & Mrs. Gbiwen at the reception

The dedication which held Sunday April 21, 2024 was immediately with a flamboyant reception hosted by Barr. Alex & Mrs. Gbiwen at the home of his uncle, Chief Solomon Arenyeka at Ubeji, Warri.

The reception was also attended by several dignitaries Such as the Member Representing Warri Federal Constituency at the House of Reps, Hon. Chief Dr. Thomas Ereyitomi, Chief Ekpoto, Esq., Chief Solomon Arenyeka, Chief Eugene Ikomi, Mr. Agbateyiniro, Mr. Seth and Family, Journalist Celestine Ukah and Family as well as lawyers and other church members and well wishers.

From left: Mr. Oneyor, Hon. Chief Ereyitomi, Barr. & Mrs. Gbiwen, Hon. Aduge Okorodudu &  Akoma

The Celebrant Barr. & Mrs. Gbiwen who were very excited expressed their joy to God for blessing them with a bouncing baby, Oritsetemi Peniel Gbiwen, promising to raise the child according to God’s Word and God’s ways.

Barr. Gbiwen whose birthday was celebrated too made the day double celebration as him and his Lovely pretty wife danced with a lot of joy, expressing gratitude to Almighty God, vowing to continue to thank God, believing God will do more for their family.

A Cross Section of dignitaries present at the baby dedication reception

They appreciated family members, professional colleagues, friends and close associates for their prayers and show of love.

Gov Oborevwori not in conflict with any past governor – Dr  Latimore

*Says governor’s humility, sense of humor inestimable

A section of the online newspapers and social media community in public sphere, has been advised to stop fabricating stories alleging conflict between the incumbent governor of Delta State, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, and former governor, Chief James Ibori.

Executive Assistant on Communications to the Governor, Dr Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, in response to trending misleading online publications, innuendos and insinuations, said governor Oborevwori has consistently call on well meaning Deltans, irrespective of political affiliation or ethnical nationality to join hands with him to move the state forward.

He told newsmen on Tuesday that the state governor is unarguably loved by the people, because of his uncommon humility, high sense of humor, respect for individuals and groups across board, adding that petty squabbles, malice and divisive tendencies are alien to the person and character of the governor.

Oghenesivbe, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Delta State Orientation Bureau, DSOB, appealed to members of the public, and the good people of the state, to disregard online publications, reports, comments or social media posts alleging open or coded conflict between governor Oborevwori and Chief Ibori or any other part governor.

The EA Communications disclosed that the duo of Oborevwori and Ibori have no misunderstanding previously, and not at the moment, and that malice not foreseeable in the future.

He assured that governor Oborevwori, will always respect, appreciate and work with past governors, elected representatives of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP and their counterparts in other political parties to fast track the overall development of Delta State, in line with his MORE Agenda.

“The governor of Delta State, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, is not and will never be in conflict with any past governor of the state, and that includes Chief James Onanefe Ibori.

“The true situation of things is that governor Oborevwori, has repeatedly call on all well meaning Deltans irrespective of political affiliation and ethnic nationality, to partner with him to develop the State. This is clearly an open invitation, and Deltans are responding.

“He’s not, and will never directly or indirectly cast aspersions at prominent leaders or any past governor who served the state at various capacities. The governor is an unrepentant respecter of constituted authorities.

“The public, and the good people of Delta State, are strongly advised to ignore or disregard stories, comments, innuendos and publications alleging open or coded conflict between governor Oborevwori and any past governor of the state.

“Deltans are already enjoying the incremental positive socioeconomic benefits of the governor’s good governance strides, flowing from the ongoing implementation of the MORE agenda.

“All well meaning Deltans, local and international investors, as well as industrialists are invited to partner the state, and governor Oborevwori to advance Delta,” Oghenesivbe said

Good News: Federal Government to sell Benin, Abuja, Ibadan, Kaduna, Kano DisCos

**Banks, AMCON lack capacity

**As Govt revokes $200m metering contract

The Federal Government yesterday vowed to sell off the five electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos) as blackout persists.

Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu said banks and the Asset Management Company (AMCON), which have been managing these DisCos, having taken over because of the failure of the management to repay loans, lack the technical capacity.

The sale to reputable technical power operators is expected to be completed within three months, he added.

According to The Nation, those affected are Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) under the management of the United Bank of Africa (UBA), Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC), Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company and Kano Electricity Distribution Company manage by Fidelity Bank, Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IEDC) is under the AMCON management.

Investors hold 60 per cent of shares in the DisCos. The Federal Government holds the remaining 40 per cent.

Blackout has persisted in most states with DisCos blaming low allocation from the national grid and gas shortages to generating companies (GenCos) as the causes, among others.

Consumers are lamenting that the epileptic power situation has worsened since January.

Adelabu spoke while hosting the Senate Committee on Power at his office in Abuja.

He said that the energy distribution assets are technical and should be managed by experts.

He informed the committee that tough decisions on the DisCos have become necessary because the entire Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) fails when they refuse to perform.

According to him, the ministry will prevail on the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to revoke underperforming licenses and change the management board of the DisCos if necessary.

Adelabu said: “On distribution, very soon you will see that tough decisions will be taken on the DisCos. They are the last lap of the sector. If they don’t perform, the entire sector is not performing.

“The entire ministry is not performing. We have put pressure on NERC, which is their regulator to make sure they raise the bar on regulation activities.

“If they have to withdraw licenses for non-performance, why not? If they have to change the board of management, why not?

“And all the DisCos that are still under AMCON and banks, within the next three months, they must be sold to technical power operators with good reputations in utility management.

“We can no longer afford AMCON to run our DisCos. We can no longer afford the banks to run our DisCos. This is a technical industry and it must be run by technical experts.”

The minister also noted that it has become necessary to reorganise the DisCos for efficiency.

He stressed that Ibadan DisCo is too large for one company to manage.

Responding to the decision to resell the DisCos, a member of the committee, Senator Isah Jibrin, alleged that some of the operators have stripped the assets of the DisCos they took over in 2013.

He insisted that the operators of any revoked DisCo must be compelled to fix the assets as they were prior to handover.

Adelabu said the Federal Government mobilised a company named Messr Zigglass with $200 million (N32 billion) to supply three million meters, but that the firm is yet to deliver.

“If you held N32 billion for these years, where is the interest?” he asked.

According to him, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed that the contract be revoked.

He said the government will bridge the current eight million metering gap in the next four to five years.

The minister noted that the funding is coming from a seed capital of N100billion and N75billion.

He added that the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) is coming to the aid of the ministry with the fund.

Adelabu blamed issues in the industry on uncompleted projects, urging the committee to approve funds for the completion of over 120 projects across the country.

He also noted that the frequent grid collapse was due to a lack of Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA).

Committee chairman, Senator Eyinaya Abaribe, said the ministry had been complaining about SCADA procurement in the last 12 years without addressing it.

Senator Danjuma Goje, a member of the committee and a former Minister of Power, told Adelabu that nothing has changed in the sector.

Senator Lalong, commenting on the company that abandoned a project after collecting $200 million since 2021, said people must be punished for their crimes to serve as a deterrent to others.

Senator Osita Ozunaso called for the cancellation of the DisCos licenses, stressing: “DisCos are the problem.”

Senator Neda Imasuen said since the present managers of the power sector have failed over the years, the government should hand them over to new ones or even foreigners.

TCN seeks funding, other support

The same committee visited the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), where the Managing Director, Sule Abdulaziz, urged the members to assist in raising funds for the completion of over 120 projects.

He urged the committee to also help in addressing the issue of right of way.

The TCN boss called on the committee to make a law that would give right of way to the projects.

According to him, vandalisation is a huge challenge hampering projects in the Northwest and Southeast.

He explained that the company is collaborating with a Chinese firm to build a super grid.

He said the N2 billion that TCN gets from the 2024 budget allocation can only pay compensation, pleading for an increased budget.

He added that there is a need for funding for new substations.

‘Gas a constraint’
Independent System Operator (ISO) Executive Director, Nafisat Ali, explained that gas has become a major constraint in the industry.

“Today there is no gas. We need gas,” she said.

She said the DisCos were still rejecting load despite the power shortage in the country.

“The DisCos don’t abide by allocation. That is the challenge,” Ali said.

Adelabu had earlier informed the committee that the Federal Government owed the Generation Companies over N1.3trillion and the gas suppliers $1.3billion.

He said the gas suppliers have refused to provide more because of the debt.

The minister urged the committee to address the debt matter.

Addressing reporters at the end of the visit, Abaribe noted that the committee would interface with the Federal Government to settle the gas debt.

He said: “Every option for us is on the table. If the option is for us to interface with the Federal Government to do their part, because it is a debt, so they have to pay their debt, we will do so.”

He said he would not doubt the minister that the World Bank SCADA project will be completed in two years.

According to him, the committee will focus its oversight on the ministry and the TCN concerning the World Bank project implementation.

He noted that the committee has invited NERC and other stakeholders to answer some questions on April 29 on the tariff review.

The chairman said the committee would revisit the penalties on power assets vandalisation.

Ondo 2024: Chief Asonja felicitates Ondo Governor, Aiyedatiwa on his successful emergence as APC Governorship candidate

**Describes Aiyedatiwa’s victory as well-deserved, all-round acceptability

The Akogun of Igbekeboland, High Chief Idowu Asonja, has congratulated the Ondo State Governor, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on his success in the state’s gubernatorial primary election of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), held Saturday, April 20th and Sunday, April 21st, 2024.

Asonja in a congratulatory message to Aiyedatiwa issued by his Media Office, on Monday, said Aiyedatiwa’s victory was “well-deserved.”

Asonja in the statement made available to newsmen in Akure, the Ondo State Capital, said the overwhelming victory of the governor in the 18 local government areas of the state was a testimonial of his acceptability and popularity in the nooks and crannies of the sunshine state.

Ayedatiwa at the end of the 2-day intra-party election conducted by a panel headed by Kogi State Governor, Mr. Usman Ododo, polled 48,460 to defeat all other contestants in the keenly contested election.

The highly referred community leader, who is also State Coordinator, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL) in Ondo State, also hailed the teeming members of APC in the state, adding that the overwhelming victory of the governor was a vote of confidence on him by the party faithful.

The prominent Ilaje leader, in the statement, x-rayed the voting patterns in the 18 local government areas of state, pointing out that the outcome of the elections showed that the teeming supporters of APC and indeed the people of the state were happy and satisfied with the development paradigms initiated by the governor, within the short period of his assumption.

Asonja expressed happiness that APC voted for continuity of progressive governance of the Ayedatiwa administration and expressed gratitude to them for rewarding the governor with the mandate to fly the flag of APC in the gubernatorial election coming up in the state on November 16th, 2024.

Asonja, however, pleaded with the governor, to be magnanimous in victory by embracing other contestants, adding that as “the father of the state, he should embrace all of them and bring them on board.”

Similarly, Asonja also appealed to other contestants to put the primary and its outcome behind them and join forces with Ayedatiwa to maintain the winning streaks of APC in the state.

Continuing, Asonja said the fate of APC was superior to the aspiration of any individual member of the party, adding that all hands must be on deck to ensure that APC emerge victorious in the November 16th 2024.

Asonja said, “I seize this medium to congratulate our esteemed and performing Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, for winning the governorship primary of our great party, APC, in the just-concluded intra-party election. This victory is surely well-deserved.”

“That Mr. Governor won in all the 18 local government areas of the state is very significant. This is an indication that he is very popular and acceptable in the nooks and crannies of the state. It’s a vote of confidence on the governor.”

“On behalf of our people and particularly my teeming supporters, I express gratitude to the good people of Ondo State, for voting overwhelmingly for Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to emerge as the candidate of our great party in the November 16th 2024 general election.”

“I also use this medium to appeal to other contestants to forget the outcome of the election and rally support for the governor to win the general election. No sacrifice is too much to ensure the APC maintains its winning streaks in Ondo State.”

“We cannot afford to push APC into the opposition due to personal aspiration. The interest of APC is far greater and above any personal ambition. Let us team up to win the general election,” Asonja pleaded.