** Tax clearance certificates to be ready in 72 Hrs after application online

Delta State Government has put measures in place to effectively capture the informal sector into her tax net with a view to increasing Internally Generated Revenue, IGR, to N12 Billion monthly in 2024.

Executive Director of Operations, Delta State Internal Revenue Services, Dr (Barr) Frank Nwugo, made the disclosure while speaking as a panelist during the 2023 DOPF Convention and Lecture Series on Wednesday in Asaba, saying that revenue generated will be judiciously spent by government to upscale the living standards and socioeconomic wellbeing of citizens of the state.

Nwugo noted that the state is in a new phase of accelerated development under the visionary leadership of the state governor, Rt Hon Sheriff F.O. Oborevwori, who is unrepentantly determined to Advance Delta in multifaceted dimensions, as encapsulated in his MORE agenda.

He disclosed that the state current IGR is between N6billion and N78billion monthly, but that the new board under the leadership of Chief Solomon Ighrakpata, is working round the clock to hit a monthly target of N12billion next year and beyond.

He said operations at the state internal revenue office had been digitalized, making it possible for tax payers to generate tax clearance certificates online, and within three working days, while assuring that Delta shall remain the best destination for investors and tourists, and called on prominent Deltans, home and abroad, to invest in the state with a firm promise that government would continue to partner with credible high profile investors and multinational corporations to boost Foreign Direct Investments, FDI.

In the same vein, a legal icon and member of Delta State House of Assembly, Hon (Barr) Bridget Anyafulu, urged the state government and the Internal Revenue Office to train and retrain revenue collection consultants, so as to drastically reduce corruption in the system.

She noted that revenue collectors are critical stakeholders, and until they are properly trained by the Internal Revenue Office, government may not reap the full benefits of their services to the state, pointing out that through regular training and enhanced digitalization systems, their activities can be remotely and proactively monitored to a large extent, so as to ensure that government is not unscrupulously shortchanged, while collection agents and consultants corners the larger percentage of revenue generated by them.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman, Delta Online Publishers Forum, Mr Emmanuel Enebeli, said the choice of this year’s theme: Fiscal Policy And Taxation – Balancing Revenue Generation And Economic Growth” aligns with the Forum’s commitment to contribute significantly to the Country’s development, through the prism of economic policies and their practical implementations.

He posited that economic growth hinges on investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and innovation, noting that all demands substantial funding, which is why as a media organisation, DOPF decided to play pivotal roles in shaping public discourse and awareness; foster comprehensive dialogue on these intricate matters, translating complex fiscal policies into understandable information for the public.

Speaking to newsmen after the lecture series, Executive Assistant on Communication and Orientation to Delta State Governor, Dr (Barr) Wilfred Latimore Oghenesivbe, described the organisers, DOPF as partners in progress with the state government, a relationship that will continue to grow, and be beneficial to all concerned.

He noted that Online publishers in the state have consistently maintained high ethical standards and professionalism in their discharge of their constitutionally assigned responsibilities as members of the fourth estate of the realm, adding some members of the group worked vigorously with the State Directorate of PDP Campaign Council during the 2023 general elections; reporting and publishing news items and articles that helped to project the MORE agenda of governor Oborevwori to Deltans and eligible voters.

Oghenesivbe assured that governor Oborevwori’s administration shall continue to effectively balance revenue generation with economic growth, as can be seen from the quality of infrastructure projects that is ongoing across the three senatorial districts, wherein for the first time in the history of Delta State, construction giant, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, was engaged to construct three flyovers and road expansion projects as a true reflection of good governance.

He urged Deltans to continue to support and pray for the governor, who he described as a forthright leader, a super administrator, detribalized Deltan that is determined to passionately and prudently fulfil his social contract with citizens of the state.

DOPF Annual Lecture: Ochei Advocates Balance Between Taxation, Economic Growth To Ensure Healthy Economy

The 4th annual lecture series of the Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF), took place on Wednesday in Asaba, with Fiscal Policy and Taxation: Balancing Revenue Generation and Economic Growth as the theme.

Dwelling on the subject, the Guest Speaker and renowned financial expert, Dr Doris Amaka Ochei, commended DOPF for the choice of the theme, which she noted was apt, as it was key to the functions of government.

Dr Ochei said no government could function effectively without Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) from taxes on the formal and informal sectors of the economy.

She stated that while the government would do everything in its power to maximize revenue, including multiple taxation, to be able to provide basic services to the people, the tax payers, especially those in the informal sector, would always aim to preserve their financial gains.

The Guest Speaker maintained that over-taxing businesses and individuals was detrimental to investment, and could reduce consumers’ purchasing power, positive global competitiveness, as well as discourage entrepreneurship and promote tax evasion.

Dr Ochei said to encourage tax compliance, government should simplify collection processes and streamline tax filing and payment procedures, utilize digital platforms and provide user-friendly interfaces, enhance tax-payer education, offer incentives such as tax deductions and credits, strengthen enforcement of tax compliance, ensure transparent communication and personalized assistance.

To increase IGR, overcome the challenges of tax collection and economic growth without over-taxing businesses and individuals, the Guest Speaker called on government to diversify the economy and explore alternative sources of revenue, improve tax collection, encourage investment, enhance transparency and accountability, improve governance and service delivery.

She stressed the need for government at all levels to strike a balance between taxation and economic growth to ensure a sustainable healthy economy.

In his welcome address, DOPF Chairman, Mr. Emmanuel Enebeli, said this year’s lecture aligned with the Forum’s commitment to contributing to the shaping a fiscal landscape capable of propelling the nation towards the prosperity and general well-being of all.

Enebeli called on the participants to utilize the pivotal discourse to pull collective wisdom and expertise that would help to strike a harmonious balance between revenue generation and economic growth.

DOPF 4th Lecture: Award of flyovers in Warri, Effurun, a sign of Oborevwori’s readiness to develop Delta economy – Omokri declares

By:Celestine Ukah

The commitment of the Delta State Government to the execution of the three flyovers project in Warri and Effurun has been described as a sign of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s readiness to carry out massive development across the State and improve its economic base.

The Functional Permanent Secretary, Delta State Ministry Information, Mr. Lucky Omokri, said on Wednesday, November 22, 2023, at the 4th lecture series of the Delta Online Publishers Forum held at Asaba, the Delta state capital.

Mr. Omokri, represented Governor Oborevwori at the event with the theme : “Fiscal Policy And Taxation: Balancing Revenue Generation And Economic Growth”.

He noted that as government carries out development programmes and projects across the state, Deltans will be encouraged to pay their taxes.

Mr Omokri stressed that the Governor in his commitment to his MORE Agenda will be focusing more on tax from landed properties and other big economic ventures in the state just as the government is providing peace and security for all businesses and residents.

Secretary, Uvwie Traditional Council of Chiefs and Chairman of the event, Chief Dr. Samuel Eshenake, emphasized the need to balance fiscal policy and taxation as well as economic growth.

Chief Eshenake commended Delta Online Publishers Forum, DOPF for the programme, describing the focus of the 2023 lecture series as very timely.

He as well urged the discussants to do justice to the topic.

Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalist, NUJ, Delta State Council, Comrade Churchill Oyowe in his goodwill message commended Delta Online Publishers, DOPF for organizing the convention and retreat for online publishers to further broaden their knowledge in the reportage of issues on Fiscal Policy And Taxation.

Comrade Oyowe encouraged Deltans to pay their taxes and expect more development from their paid tax.

Urhobo Youth Group Hails Senator Dafinone’s Database Initiatives, Expresses Confidence In His Representation

Leadership and members of the Federated Movement Of Urhobo Youth Leaders FMUYL, led by Prince Sony Jifas Ogbon JP, have expressed confidence over the representation of the Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District in the Upper Chamber of the National Assembly, Senator Ede Dafinone.

Prince Sony Jifas Ogbon, JP, the Coordinator of the group stated this while fielding questions from journalists recently, saying that the Federated Movement of Urhobo Youth Leaders are fully convinced, judging from the pedigrees of the Senator representing Delta Central in the 10th Senate, his agendas, initiatives and policies put in place so far.

The youth leader and philanthropist maintained that, Senator Dafinone’s programs so far, even in the midst of his detractors in the opposition party, that took him to elections tribunal and appeal court, he still had the best people oriented initiatives.

He said recently, Delta Central constituents received with overwhelming joy Senator Ede Dafinone Database Model Initiative which came in five different categories.

The group said, the initiative will afford every Delta Central indigenes the opportunity to benefit from jobs and other empowerment programmes which will better the lives of the people. They said with the exposures of Senator Dafinone and his intellectual prowess, they are very much optimistic that Delta Central will like the 8th and 9th senate, benefit immensely from his programs.

While describing him as a well grounded intellectual and a chartered accountant, Prince Sony Jifas Ogbon noted that he believed that he will use his connections in the business word to attract great things to the senatorial district.

“He is a responsive lawmaker whose interest is on his people, but not on his pocket. Look at his petition concerning the federal commissioner position which he drew the attention of other senators to in the house as well as a bill he sponsor to stop and investigate the nefarious crude oil theft in the region, it is a testament that he is indeed a man who knew why he was voted, the group affirmed”.

The Federated Movement of Urhobo Youth Leaders however called on Senator Dafinone to be careful with selfish politicians who may come around him with inordinate intentions of cornering everything to themselves alone.

Delta, Warri Kingdom are proud of you: Amb. Agbolaya showers praises on Former Minister of Defence, Chief Oritsejafor @79

The leading Chairmanship hopeful for Warri South Local Government Council in the upcoming Local Government election in Delta State, Amb. Dr. Toyiin Agbolaya JP has showered praises on the former Minister of Defence and former National Secretary of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP,, Chief Dr Roland Lere Oritsejafor at his 79th birth anniversary.

Amb. Dr. Agbolaya a vibrant and full of capacity administrator, while felicitating Chief Dr. Oritsejafor who is also the Ogwa of Warri Kingdom, said Nigeria. Delta State and Warri kingdom are proud of the former minister for his distinguished service to the nation.

The Warri South Chairmanship hopeful, in his felicitation message expressed delight to share the auspicious moment great joy, deep reflection and Thanksgiving with Chief Roland Oritsejafor.

Amb. Dr. Agbolaya’s congratulatory terse stated further thus: ” Ogwa of Warri Kingdom “Your love for our country and its citizens, and desire for a greater Nigeria continuously propels your courage, dedication and diligence, Your attainment of 79, marks continued progression within select group elders whose mien reaffirms the values of what is best amongst us,

“Warri Kingdom, Delta state and our country are indeed very proud of you”.

Happy birthday Chief Roland Oritsejafor the ” Ogwa” of Warri Kingdom.

Just In: Plateau Guber: Appeal Court Sacks PDP’s Mutfwang, declares Goshwe of APC winner

The Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja, on Sunday, removed Governor Mutfwang Manasseh of the Peoples Democratic Party as the Governor of Plateau state.

Consequently, the 3-man panel of the appellate court has declared Nentawe Goshwe of the All Progressives Congress as the validly elected governor of Plateau state.

Also, the court has ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission to recognize Nentawe Goshwe as the authentic governor of Plateau state, having won the March 18, governorship election in the State.

Justice Elfrieda Williams-Dawodu, leading the panel, held in her lead judgment that in accordance with section 177 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, Manasseh was not a validly sponsored candidate of the PDP during the election.

The panel held that the PDP breached the court’s order that a valid Congress be conducted in the 17 Local Government Areas of the State, by conducting Congress only in 5 LGAs of the State, and as such is a nullity.

The court while dismissing the decision of the Plateau State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal held that the issue of qualification is both a pre-election and a post-election matter contrary to the findings of the tribunal which held that the appellant lacked the locus to contest the validity of the respondent.

The court also noted that under section 134 of the Electoral Act, “it is the sole right of a political party to sponsor its candidate having met the necessary requirements to do so.

While evoking section 136 of the Electoral Act, the appellate court ordered INEC to retrieve the Certificate of Return issued to Governor Manasseh and issue a fresh Certificate of Return to Goshwe.

**Says Delta to digitise land administration for efficiency

Delta State Government says it is working to digitise land administration in the state for effective service delivery.

The State Commissioner for Lands, Surveys and Urban Development, Chief Emamusi Obiodeh disclosed this at the 2023 Delta State Executive Council Retreat held at Maryam Babangida Leisure Park, Asaba.

He said the Ministry remained committed to ensuring that Governor Oborevwori’s M.O.R.E Agenda was achieved by facilitating effective and efficient land administration activities in the state.

Speaking at a panel session at the retreat with Theme: “Delivering the M.O.R.E Agenda for Advancing Delta: Strategies, Enablers”, Obiodeh said the Ministry was ready to provide land for investors to build new towns and industrial parks.

According to him, my vision is to ensure efficient and effective land administration in the state in line with Governor Oborevwori’s M.O.R.E Agenda for the people of Delta State.

“As a Ministry, we are poised to provide land for investors to create new towns and industrial parks in Delta State.

“To achieve this, we are prepared to digitalise operations of the Ministry of Lands and Surveys from manual system to automated system to eliminate delays in delivery, and it will also increase the revenue generation of the state,” he stated.

The Lands Commissioner further said when completed property investors could access information on government portals relating to properties and land in Delta State from anywhere in the world.

Military moves against terrorist leaders, kills 50, arrest over 122 others

The Nigerian military said that it has continued to target the leadership and chain of command of the terrorists, insurgents and extremists, undermining the security of citizens in the country.

Director, of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, who made this disclosure in a statement in Abuja, said, the armed forces are on course with its operations, which are yielding encouraging results.

Gen. Buba said, the ongoing counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations, is making the country safer each passing day that these evil forces are decimated.

As he said that the operations of the last week, resulted in the killing of 50 terrorists, and the arrest of 122 others.

The statement said: “Troops also arrested 49 perpetrators of oil theft and rescued 182 kidnapped hostages. In the SS, troops denied oil theft of the estimated sum of One Hundred Twenty-Eight Million Sixty-Six Thousand Eight Hundred and Twenty-Five Naira (N128,066,825.00) only. Furthermore, troops recovered 66 assorted weapons and 11,474 assorted ammunition. The breakdown is as follows: one conqueror APC, one GPMG, one NSVT gun, one GT3 rifle, 25 AK47 rifles, four pump action guns, two locally made AK47 rifles, three locally made guns, one locally made revolver guns, four locally fabricated pistols and four long dane guns, two locally made hand grenades, one bandolier. Others are 574 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 640 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 150 rounds of 12.7mm ammo, five rounds of 9mm ammo, 10,520 live cartridges, five vehicles, 27 mobile phones, 12 motorcycles, three boating radios, one Motorolla HHR, three bicycles, one solar panel, one solar charger controller, one radio receiver and the sum of N75,909,290.00 amongst other items”.

Troops in the Niger Delta area, he added destroyed 242 dugout pits, 49 boats, 78 storage. tanks, one tricycle, 21 vehicles, 104 cooking ovens, three pumping machines, seven outboard engines and 49 illegal refining sites.

He said the troops recovered 151,850 litres of stolen crude oil, 48,630 litres of illegally refined AGO and 10,125 litres of DPK.

The armed forces, he said, will continue to apply strong military pressure such as has been witnessed in the week.

Stating that the terrorist and their cohorts would continue to suffer heavy casualties, the director concluded that “It is in the interest of terrorists to surrender, as being done in the NE, to avoid eventual destruction”.

Tribunal sacking of Governor Sule: Appeal Court Reserves Judgement In Nasarawa Gov’ship Appeal

The Abuja division of the Court of Appeal has reserved judgment in the appeal brought before it by Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State seeking to upturn the decision of the Nasarawa State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal which sacked him from office.

A three-member panel of justices headed by Justice U. Onyemenam told parties involved that the date for judgment will be communicated.

When hearing commenced, Wole Olanipekun, counsel for Sule who filed five processes to challenge the appeal, urged the Court to dismiss the judgment of the Tribunal and allow the appeal of his client.

Olanipekun noted that the Tribunal refused to take the submissions of their witnesses during hearing and that data from the BVAS tendered to the Tribunal were merely dumped and not considered as evidence.

After adopting his processes, Kanu Agabi, counsel for David Ombugadu and the PDP, in his reply, urged the Court to dismiss the appeal against the Tribunal judgment stating that their evidence are merely documentary.

On the issue of BVAS, the senior lawyer argued that it was sufficiently demonstrated in the Tribunal as demanded by law, with the printout from the machine shown, against the argument that they were merely dumped without being analyzed.

The Tribunal had, in a split decision of two-to-one by a three-man panel declared the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), David Ombugadu as the winner of the March 18, 2023 Nasarawa State governorship election.

A dissenting ruling by a member of the panel however upheld the election of Governor Sule.

“In an extensive and exclusive interview, Evangelist Ebuka Obi, the visionary leader of the Zion Prayer Movement Outreach, shared more about the inspiring vision behind Seraphic Television. This channel, born from a heartfelt desire to spread prayers and positive vibes worldwide, is shaping up to be a dynamic force for good.

Evangelist Obi stressed that Seraphic TV is more than just a regular channel; it’s a welcoming space for people of all ages. Beyond traditional preaching, it’s a place designed to bring positivity and a stronger connection to faith.

Family values take center stage in Seraphic TV’s shows. Evangelist Obi talked about how the channel aims to bring families together with feel-good content. It’s not just about being entertained; it’s about creating happy moments at home and offering an alternative to shows that might not have the best values.

Exploring the core offerings of Seraphic TV, Evangelist Obi highlighted live streaming, church services, and thoughtful discussions. These elements make up the backbone of the channel, offering viewers a real-time, immersive spiritual experience. Evangelist Obi described Seraphic TV as a “spiritual festivity online,” bringing divine moments to people all around the world.

As the Spiritual Director, Evangelist Obi compared his role to that of a conductor guiding harmonies. It’s not just about what gets shown; it’s about making sure everything aligns with the mission of spreading love, hope, and enlightenment. Each broadcast promises to be a harmonious blend of these divine elements.

Wrapping up the interview, Evangelist Obi warmly invited a global audience to join the spiritual journey with Seraphic Television. It’s not just a channel; it’s a global community. He encouraged everyone to tune in, enjoy the uplifting shows, and become part of a worldwide family bonded by faith, love, and the transformative power of the Word of God.

This comprehensive interview with Evangelist Ebuka Obi offers a deeper understanding of the layers within Seraphic Television. It’s not just a channel; it’s a beacon of positivity, reaching hearts and homes around the world with a vision rooted in faith and joy.