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 Politics / Bayelsa Govt Tasks Lawyers To Properly Guide Clients by NewBAYELSA: 5:30am On Jul 17, 2021 |
Bayelsa Govt Tasks Lawyers to Properly Guide Clients .... Directs Aghoro II to Maintain Status Quo Over Chieftaincy Stool Crisis The Bayelsa State Government has urged legal practitioners in the state to properly guide their clients based on the merit or otherwise of the cases at hand to avoid unnecessary litigations. It also cautioned individuals and communities to resist the temptation of engaging in subversive activities aimed at dethroning traditional rulers whose chieftaincy stools have been recognized by law. The Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, gave the advice on Thursday when he met with the chiefs, elders and other community representatives of Aghoro II community in Ekeremor Local Government Area of the state at his office in Yenagoa, over the disputed Amananaowei stool of the community. Senator Ewhrudjakpo who reminded lawyers of their professional ethics, said law practice was not just to make money, but deserves honour, integrity and respect as a profession that promotes justice, peace and order in society. The Deputy Governor pointed out that in some jurisdictions like Abuja and Lagos, lawyers issue a counselor's certificate to their clients, which makes them liable to accept responsibility for any inconveniences arising from ill-advising their clients. His words: "Those of you that are lawyers, you have a duty to advise your clients properly. I want you to go back to your professional ethics regarding the duties of a counsel. Litigation is not always the best option for conflict resolution. That is why we have the multi-door court, that gives options for arbitration, mediation and conciliation." Explaining the state Chieftaincy Law, Senator Ewhrudjakpo cited section 28 which states that no individual or group has the right to either dethrone or install a traditional ruler without following due process as stipulated by law. He therefore directed all the parties involved in the Aghoro 2 community leadership conflict to observe status quo with His Royal Highness Ojunkonsin Ibamughan still serving as Amananaowei pending the final determination of the issues raised at the meeting. The Deputy Governor, however, warned traditional rulers not to see their recognition as a license to oppress and shortchange their people, as the law also provides a window for their removal. He further directed all the parties in Aghoro II Community to write and forward their petitions to the state government within two weeks for consideration and possible action. He said, "Government does not and will never protect any Amananaowei who does wrong things. At the same time, we as a government would not sit idly and watch any individual or group of persons take laws into their hand to cause a breach of peace in any community in the state. "When a traditional stool had been classified by government, it implies that the community cannot arbitrarily remove the occupant of that stool from office; only the government can exercise that power in accordance with the law." Presenting his case to the Deputy Governor, a factional leader, Chief Afro Biukeme, alleged that Chief Ibamughan was removed from office as Amananaowei of Aghoro II Community due to misappropriation of community funds amounting to about N90 million. Biukeme insisted that embattled Amananaowei embezzled the funds with his cronies and had since refused to return to the community to give a proper account of the funds as demanded by the people of Aghoro. In another development, the Bayelsa State Government has resolved the face-off that resulted from an error in a land survey map involving some communities in Sagbama and Southern Ijaw LGAs of the state. Resolving the issue at a meeting in Government House, Yenagoa, the Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, urged the people of Akeddei, Isoni, Anyama-Ibeni and Isampou to live in peace as the cartographical error had been corrected. While thanking the Ibenanaowei of Oyiakiri Kingdom, King Joshua Igbagara for his efforts, the Deputy Governor advised communities in the state not to see carrying of arms over land disputes as the best option, but rather seek redress through dialogue or at the lawcourt. In his remarks, King Joshua Igbagara, pointed out that the Adegbe lake which belongs to the people of Ossiama was ascribed to Akeddei community in the said survey map submitted at the law court over an ongoing land dispute between Isampou and Anyama-Ibeni communities. He expressed the confidence that with the correction made in the survey map, the crisis was over for good. Also speaking, the Amananaowei of Isampou community in Southern Ijaw, Chief Friday Ogbodo, expressed surprised that the Adegbe Lake was mapped in favour of Akeddei community by the surveyor whom his community engaged. Chief Ogbodo said the fact that the Adegbe lake belongs to Ossiama community was never in dispute and therefore canvassed for peace among the communities in the area. The paramount rulers of Akeddei, Isampou, Toru-Ebeni, Ossiama, Anyama-Ibeni, and Isoni, including some prominent chiefs from area and top government functionaries, were part of the meeting. https://www.facebook.com/108934160830536/posts/345378913852725/
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| Politics / Bayelsa Assures Nigerian Engineers Of Continued Support by NewBAYELSA: 7:25pm On Jul 13, 2021 |
BAYELSA ASSURES NIGERIAN ENGINEERS OF CONTINUED SUPPORT The Bayelsa State Government has assured the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) of government's continued support for the professional growth of its members in the state. Giving the assurance at his office in Government House on Tuesday, when the Yenagoa branch of the NSE paid him a courtesy visit, the state Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, said government was committed to the in-service training of engineers in the state. According to him, effective training and retraining will help to enhance quality of jobs done, proper planning and implementation of projects as well as forestalling project failure in the state. Commenting on NSE's request for support to its proposed bill on Bayelsa Physical Development, Senator Ewhrudjakpo urged the body to fashion out other sources of funding rather than solely rely on government capital projects. While emphasizing the need for discipline, he particularly advised the body of engineers to think out ways of involving multinational companies and other corporate organizations in its funding arrangement. Senator Ewhrudjakpo also charged members of the Society to occasionally embark on excursion visits to schools including the faculty of engineering at the Niger Delta University (NDU) to give ethical orientation and inspire the future engineers of the state. His words: "To the issues you have raised, I want to assure you that we are still sponsoring engineers in the state. Only yesterday (Monday), I approved training for engineers who are going to attend the NSE Conference holding in August this year. As the Ministry of Works brings their applications, we will approve them." "We will continue to support the Nigerian Society of Engineers as far as our capacity to support is concerned. We will ensure that our engineers go for training and re-training. This is key because the only way you can contribute to societal development is to learn continually," Ewhrudjakpo said. Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman, Nigerian Society of Engineers, Yenagoa Branch, Engr. Gordon Monday Bubou, said the visit was to solicit the state government's support to enable their members attend the forthcoming NSE Conference in August. Engr. Bubou equally appealed that the NSE needed the present administration's assistance for the Bayelsa State Physical Development Bill which seeks funding for engineers, surveyors and builders through public capital projects in the state. He was full of appreciation for the Deputy Governor's contributions towards the building of critical infrastructure in the state in the last administration and the growth of the profession as a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers. The Chairman also thanked the state Governor, Senator Douye Diri, for the supportive role he played during the burial of a former Commissioner for Works in the state, Professor Telimoye Oguara. Highpoint of the visit was the presentation of a special merit award of excellence to the Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo by an ex-commissioner for works and infrastructure, Engr Charles Ambaiowei. https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=343617900695493&id=108934160830536
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| Education / Nba Conference: Gov. Diri Tasks Senior Lawyers On Grooming Younger Colleagues by NewBAYELSA: 4:39pm On Jul 09, 2021 |
NBA CONFERENCE: GOV. DIRI TASKS SENIOR LAWYERS ON GROOMING YOUNGER COLLEAGUES Practicing senior lawyers in Bayelsa State have been charged to groom their junior learned colleagues to enable them to grow and succeed in the legal profession. Giving the charge at the opening ceremony of a three-day Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Young Lawyers Forum in Yenagoa on Thursday, Governor Douye Diri said it was the only way to ensure the perpetuity of the profession. Governor Diri, who spoke through his Deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, identified determination and courage as two critical factors young lawyers need to succeed in their careers. He maintained that although it was always challenging for young lawyers to make it, they must draw inspiration from those who had grown to the peak of their calling through determination and courage. The Governor urged freshers in the legal profession to be fearless, maintaining that once they are bold, there is nothing that could conquer them. Governor Diri, who reminded the young lawyers of the technological innovations taking place in society, also encouraged them to take full advantage of the opportunities created by technology and the current realities. His words: "I want to use this opportunity to speak to the senior lawyers that they must realize that, until you encourage the young lawyers, you would stand alone. And when that happens, the survival of the law profession is threatened. "All senior legal practitioners must try as much as possible to ensure the younger ones grow. For young lawyers, it is always challenging, but I want to tell you that everyone begins as a young lawyer, including the Chief Judge, the Attorney General, and all the judges seated here. "What has made them get to where they are today, are two things; and they are courage and determination. Once you are determined, you will get to where you want to get to in the legal profession and life in general." Declaring the ceremony open, the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Kate Abiri, said the conference was not only beneficial to young lawyers but for the development of the legal profession in general. Underscoring the importance of using modern-day technology, Justice Abiri noted that the state judiciary was leveraging on it to improve on its services, especially in the area of justice delivery. According to her, "The world we are in today is fast-moving from the use of analog to the era of technology-driven society and globalization. It is, therefore, necessary that you all key into this emerging trend, in order not to be left behind." Also speaking, the state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Biriyai Dambo (SAN), recalled that his experience as a young lawyer was radically different from that of the present generation, noting that modern-day practice is essentially technologically driven. Mr. Dambo pointed out that the courts in Bayelsa had departed from the longhand note-taking practice that was common in the past, and urged the young lawyers to embrace the modern advancements in the legal profession. Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of the NBA Young Lawyers Forum in the state, Mr. Clement Famateigha, thanked the state government and resource persons, expressing hope that the conference would enable the participants to catch up with modern trends in the legal industry. In their separate goodwill messages, the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association, the Yenagoa branch, Mr. Ukumbiriowei Saiyou, and his Sagbama counterpart, Mr. George Aderigha, emphasized the need for both senior and young lawyers to adapt to changes generated by modern technology to ensure speedy dispensation of justice. The theme of the 2021 NBA Young Lawyers Forum conference is "Modern Legal Practice and the Need for Adaptation for Efficient and Effective Productivity in the Legal Industry". https://www.facebook.com/OfficialFocusBayelsa/posts/340888597635090
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| Education / NDU PROTESTS: Bayelsa Govt Resolves Rift Between Students And School Authority. by NewBAYELSA: 1:59pm On Jul 08, 2021 |
NDU PROTESTS: Bayelsa Govt Resolves Rift Between Students and School Authority. The mediatory meeting at the instance of the Bayelsa State Government between the Governing Council of the Niger Delta University NDU, students' representatives, and other stakeholders on Wednesday have restored normalcy to the state-owned university. It will be recalled that until yesterday, students of the university had been protesting against the closure of the institution's portal for payment of school fees and alleged enforcement of compulsory wearing of school uniforms by the university authority. But rising from the last round of meetings directed by Governor Douye Diri which were presided over by his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo in Government House, Yenagoa, it was agreed that the portal for the payment of school fees be reopened. A statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Doubara Atasi, highlighted other resolutions reached at the meeting to include payment of 70% of school fees at the beginning of every semester. It added that the remaining 30% is to be paid before the commencement of second semester’s exams, while year one students are required to make full payment of all fees to enable them have their matriculation numbers. It also endorsed the prohibition of indecent and indiscriminate dressing by students, directing all faculties to enforce their respective dress codes and other regulations as spelled out in the 2015 students' handbook. On the issue of suspension of Student Union Government, it was resolved that the school authority should allow the formation of the body at the beginning of the upcoming new academic calendar. Earlier in his charge to the students, the Deputy Governor reminded the students that their primary objective is to acquire degrees and good character that will enable them to eke out a living after graduation. Senator Ewhrudjakpo cautioned them never to resort to violence in agitating for their rights especially when there is room for dialogue. He noted that just as the university has the mandate to award them certificates on completion of their respective programs, it can also penalize any student found wanting in character. Also speaking, the Pro-Chancellor of the Niger Delta University, Dr. Mathew Seiyefa commended the state governor, Senator Douye Diri, and his deputy, Senator Ewhrudjakpo, for their prompt intervention in the matter, describing them as true fathers. Dr. Seiyefa also thanked the students of NDU for not resorting to violence during the protest, assuring that the school authority would continue to make decisions that will only earn them a better future. In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of NDU, Prof Samuel Edoumiekumo, described the misunderstanding as unfortunate and urged the students not to allow themselves to be used as cannon fodder by disgruntled politicians to achieve their selfish ends. Prof. Edoumiekumo while expressing gratitude to the state government for not only showing concern but taking measures to resolve the conflict, promised to implement the resolutions reached the meeting in the interest of all. Responding on behalf of the students Mr. Proctor Joshua-Ebi also appreciated the state government for its quick intervention which he believes would douse the existing tension between them and the school authority. Mr. Joshua-Ebi, however, was pleased with the authorities to produce and publish a memo conveying all the resolutions to convince the student population of their authenticity. https://www.facebook.com/OfficialFocusBayelsa/posts/340145081042775
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| Health / World Drug Abuse Day: Gov. Diri Declares Zero Tolerance To Illicit Drug Peddling by NewBAYELSA: 12:16pm On Jun 27, 2021 |
WORLD DRUG ABUSE DAY: GOV. DIRI DECLARES ZERO TOLERANCE TO ILLICIT DRUG PEDDLING, ABUSE IN BAYELSA The Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has declared that his administration would leave no stone unturned in the fight against peddling of illicit drugs and substance abuse in the state. Governor Diri made the declaration at the weekend during this year's International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking at the Peace Park in Yenagoa with the theme: "Share the Facts. Save Lives". Represented by his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, the Governor said the state government had already set up the Bayelsa Drug Abuse Prevention and Rehabilitation Committee to checkmate the trafficking of illegal drugs and drug abuse in the state. A statement by the Senior Special Assistant on Media, Mr Doubara Atasi, quoted him as saying that drug abuse was not limited to only the youths, and therefore stressed the need for all stakeholders to synergize efforts in fighting against the menace. Governor Diri particularly called on the state Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to work closely with the state Drug Abuse Prevention and Rehabilitation Committee in terms of sharing facts about the social menace in order to save lives. According to the Governor, drug abuse is not peculiar to any particular age, race, religion or gender, noting that everyone was exposed to the dangers posed by the social malady in society. Describing drug and substance abuse as an enabler of crime and criminality, he warned those perpetrating the act to desist from it in their best interest or face the wrath of the law. His words, 'Drug abuse is not limited to only our youths. We should share the facts about drug abuse. Let our youths shun drug abuse. "The government has set up the Bayelsa Drug Abuse Prevention and Rehabilitation Committee. That tells you that we are putting our first eleven to fight this menace of drugs. "There will be no room for drug peddling; no room for drug marketing, and no room for drug consumption. The Committee has been charged and sooner than later, they will have offices in all the local governments, and as we go on, we will cascade it to all the constituencies. "Those who are into it either as dealers or consumers should desist from this harmful practice because there will be no hiding place for any of them; Our crack team will smoke them out." Earlier, the Chaiman, Bayelsa State Drug Abuse Prevention and Rehabilitation Committee, Dr Faith Izibenua described the 2021 World Day Against Drug Abuse as a call to action for all to share facts about drug abuse. Dr Izibenua, however, cautioned everyone to get the right information from the right sources to share, adding that the UN 2021 World Drug Report on Drug and Substance Abuse indicated that 200 million people were engaged in drug abuse worldwide. Highlights of the celebrations included a road walk led by the Deputy Governor from Imgbi Junction, in the Yenagoa metropolis to the Peace park. https://www.facebook.com/108934160830536/posts/332844588439491/
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| Politics / ANAMBRA 2021: Bayelsa Deputy Gov Ewhrudjakpo Upbeat On Pdp's Victory. by NewBAYELSA: 9:33am On Jun 18, 2021 |
ANAMBRA 2021: Bayelsa Deputy Gov Ewhrudjakpo Upbeat On PDP's Victory. Ahead of the November 6 Governorship Election in Anambra, the Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, says he is cocksure that the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, will coast home to victory in the south-east state. Senator Ewhrudjakpo expressed the optimism at the state Party Secretariat in Awka, on Thursday shortly after leading a committee to conduct the election of local government delegates for the forthcoming PDP primaries in Anambra State In a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Doubara Atasi, the Deputy Governor described the exercise as smooth and successful, noting that 21 delegates were elected in the process. Senator Ewhrudjakpo, who is the Chairman of the committee disclosed that an additional 21 physically challenged persons representing the 21 local government areas of the state were also chosen by members of the party. While expressing delight at the show of unity and cooperation among the various stakeholders of the PDP in the state, he maintained that there are strong prospects, that the party has what it takes to win the November 6 election. According to the Bayelsa Deputy Governor, the PDP delegates were elected in a peaceful, free and fair manner under the supervision of officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC. He added that as a law-abiding party, the PDP would soon conduct its primaries by the timeline provided by INEC and give whoever emerges as its flagbearer all the needed support to win the election. He thanked the National Leader of the Party, Prince Uche Secondus, the Chairman, PDP Governors' Forum, Alhaji Waziri Tambuwal, and Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsafor giving him and members of the Committee the opportunity to serve the party. His words, "It has been a very successful program. As you can see, there is no protest going on. Everywhere is peaceful and calm. So we have completed the exercise, which was witnessed by INEC. "Members of our party have freely elected 21 delegates of their choice and also 21 physically challenged persons to represent those who are going to participate in the primaries. "We believe we will come back to conduct the full primaries and thereafter we shall all be on the ground to support our candidate and party to win the 2021 Anambra Governorship election. "As a party, we have what it takes to win because all the walls of division that made us not to win this state are being broken. We strongly believe Anambra is for PDP to win considering what we have been able to do over the years." https://www.facebook.com/108934160830536/posts/327181209005829/
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| Politics / Bayelsa Opens Partnership Negotiations With Ibom-Air Over Commercial Flights by NewBAYELSA: 3:00pm On May 09, 2021 |
BAYELSA OPENS PARTNERSHIP NEGOTIATIONS WITH IBOM-AIR OVER COMMERCIAL FLIGHTS Bayelsa State Government at the weekend opened partnership discussions with its Akwa Ibom counterpart on the use of Ibom Air to start commercial flight operations at the Bayelsa International Airport. https://www.facebook.com/108934160830536/posts/302143081509642/ 7 Likes 1 Share
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| Politics / Petroleum Industry Bill: Bayelsa Govt Seeks Closer Working Relationship. by NewBAYELSA: 2:43pm On May 04, 2021 |
Petroleum Industry Bill: Bayelsa Govt Seeks Closer Working Relationship With Founding Fathers ...Urge Them To Be Vocal On Restructuring, Urban Renewal Bayelsa State Government has called on its founding fathers and elders to be more vociferous in their support of the struggle for restructuring of the country and passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB). Governor Douye Diri, who made the call on Monday during the quarterly meeting of the Bayelsa Elders Council, also urged them to support his administration's ongoing urban renewal program to give Yenagoa, the state capital, a befitting look. Declaring the meeting open at the Niger Delta Wetlands Centre in Yenagoa, the Governor restated the state government's preparedness to identify with any worthy cause aimed at addressing the injustice and imbalances in the body politic of Nigeria. Represented by his Deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, he attributed the unrelenting agitations for secession by some ethnic nationalities to the absence of justice, fairness, and equity in the country. While advising the elders to be courageous and united at all times, Senator Diri, urged them to expand their lobbying across ethnic lines to advance the cause for equitable representation in all federal agencies and institutions. He expressed hope that the passage and eventual implementation of the Petroleum Industry Bill would go a long way in addressing the issue of shortchanging host communities in the sharing of oil and gas proceeds mainly generated from the Niger Delta. His words, “When we talk about the issue of restructuring, we will need the elders to make it more effective. So, we enjoin you individually and collectively to take advantage of your outreach spread beyond Bayelsa to help us in the struggle. “Our doors are open for your useful suggestions and advice. If there are urgent issues of interest to the Ijaw Nation, and particularly Bayelsa, please don’t hesitate to knock on our doors. “On the issue of the Petroleum Industry Bill, PIB, we believe that, in no distant time, when the current industrial action by the Parliamentary Workers Union is over, the bill will be passed. "The state has made a direct presentation and we believe that what we have proposed is quite representative enough of our interest, aspirations, and desires. “We believe that if the bill is passed, our situation will not be the same again and there will be an improvement from what we are getting now. We also believe that our elders can do the necessary lobbying while we do our own." On his Urban Renewal Programme, Governor Diri urged the residents of Yenagoa who have illegal structures erected on the government's land and the right of way to remove them or risk forceful demolition with its attendant consequences. According to him, the dream of the Prosperity Administration is to upgrade the state capital from its current status to one that will give Bayelsans a sense of pride and joy shortly. While calling on the elders to support the government's policies and projects constructively, Senator Diri promised to carry them along in the scheme of things especially in the area of welfare. Speaking earlier, the Acting Chairman of the Bayelsa Elders Council, Chief Thompson Okorotie, expressed the group’s support for the restructuring of the country, describing it as a survival valve of the nation which is currently on the precipice. Chief Okorotie, who also decried the worsening security situation in the country, said it was unfortunate that the South-South region, unlike the other major ethnic nationalities, had yet to come out with its security outfit. The elder statesman, however, appealed to critical stakeholders to close ranks and rise above the multi-lingual challenge facing them and fashion out an effective security architecture for the region. A minute silence was observed for the former Chairman, Chief Francis Doukpola, Professor Kimse Okoko, Chief A. A. Tariebi, and other departed members of the Bayelsa Elders Council. https://www.facebook.com/108934160830536/posts/298735285183755/
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| Politics / PIB: Bayelsa Govt Seeks Closer Working Relationship With Fouding Fathers by NewBAYELSA: 2:36pm On May 04, 2021 |
Petroleum Industry Bill: Bayelsa Govt Seeks Closer Working Relationship With Founding Fathers https://www.facebook.com/108934160830536/posts/298735285183755/
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| Politics / Bayelsa Okays Advocacy For Local Government Financial Autonomy by NewBAYELSA: 5:33pm On Apr 29, 2021 |
BAYELSA OKAYS ADVOCACY FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT FINANCIAL AUTONOMY Bayelsa State Government says it is currently one of the few states in the country where other arms of government function independently including the local government system. The State Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, stated this on Wednesday when the National President of the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees, NULGE, Comrade Akeem Olatunji-Ambali, paid him a courtesy visit in Government House, Yenagoa. His Senior Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Doubara Atasi, in a statement quoted Senator Ewhrudjakpo as saying that the clamor for financial autonomy for the local councils is in line with the principles of rule of law and separation of powers. He said the state government had since given its approval of financial autonomy to the councils, and therefore, does not in any way tamper with their funds. The Deputy Governor noted that the government had recently resolved to increase its financial support to the councils with an additional sum of 252 million nairas every month. According to him, the move was necessitated by inadequate revenue allocations from the federal government and the implementation of promotion arrears of council workers by the state government. Senator Ewhrudjakpo, also noted that the government has adopted the policy of the Joint Tax System, which he described as a unified approach of generating revenue into the coffers of both state and local government councils in the state. His words, “We have not only exercised autonomy for our local government system here but also addressed several issues people are protesting for elsewhere. In Bayelsa, we have autonomy for the Judiciary since 2013 and the House of Assembly in 2019. “Bayelsa State is one state where we don’t tamper with local government funds. As the funds come, the chairmen meet with the state at the Joint Allocation Committee, JAC, and what we do is to approve the JAC figures and they go back to dispense. “Only recently, in addition to what we are giving to the local government for the payment of primary school teachers, we have just decided to give another 252million naira as support to councils." On the issue of a 30 percent Minimum Wage for council workers, Senator Ewhrudjakpo said the state government in consultation with council chairmen and state NULGE leadership, had set up a committee to look into its implementation. The deputy governor, however, urged NULGE to take the issue of reforms in the local government system seriously to address the excesses of some council chairmen and for the overall benefit of rural dwellers. On the appeal for the completion of NULGE state headquarters, Senator Ewhrudjakpo promised that the government will look into their request for appropriate action. Speaking earlier, the National President of NULGE, Comrade Olatunji-Ambali, explained that his team was in the state in continuation of the union's nationwide advocacy campaign for local government autonomy. Comrade Ambali described the local government as the most strategic, relevant, and direct system of government that must be accorded its pride of place in the country to positively impact the masses. He also identified insecurity in the country as a challenge that can be addressed significantly, if the local government system that interfaces directly with the traditional rulers and rural people is strengthened. While appreciating the state government for its support to the local government system, the NULGE helmsman appealed for the completion of the union’s secretariat in the state. https://www.facebook.com/108934160830536/posts/295767062147244/
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| Politics / South Govts Lambaste Nbc Over Indecision, Unresolved Boundary Disputes by NewBAYELSA: 1:10pm On Apr 29, 2021 |
SOUTH GOVTS LAMBASTE NBC OVER INDECISION, UNRESOLVED BOUNDARY DISPUTES ...Task Commission on Fieldwork. The Governments of four South-South states in the country, on Tuesday, lampooned the National Boundary Commission (NBC) over its inability to take decisive actions to resolve inter-state boundary disputes in the region. Recounting their challenges, the Governments of Bayelsa, Delta, Akwa Ibom, and Edo states strongly condemned the lay-back attitude of NBC and called on it to embark on fieldwork to verify claims made by parties to border disputes. This, they believe would enable the Commission to settle boundary disputes in the geopolitical region in real-time as against its current practice of holding mere seminars and signing of communiques from time to time. The boundary committees of the South-South states chaired by their respective deputy governors made this known at a 2-day interactive session organized by the National Boundary Commission at the Unity Hall, Asaba in Delta State. Speaking at the event, the Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, wondered why NBC had failed to implement the Supreme Court order of 2012. The order, according to Senator Ewhrudjakpo, mandates the Commission to properly delineate the boundary between Rivers and Bayelsa especially in regards to the Oluasiri/Soku dispute. Describing Bayelsa and Rivers people as brothers and sisters, he urged NBC not to allow any party involved in the dispute to slow down its efforts, but rather take practical steps towards resolving the issue in the interest of justice and peace. His words, "We in Rivers and Bayelsa are brothers more mingled than Delta and Edo. We want our dispute settled as quickly as possible now. Like the Attorney General presented earlier, we don't have any problem in the borderline of Sagbama and Ekeremor LGAs which were part of the then Mid-western region. "The only one that came up on that axis was the Beniseide and since the resolution of 2002/2003 that boundary has been quiet. The only one that has refused to be quiet is this Rivers/Bayelsa Boundary. "It is quite pathetic in the sense that since 2012 when the Supreme Court gave its judgment, nothing has been done. I think NBC needs to be a little bit more decisive. "On issues where the court has given an order, 'go and do this and the other party is not forthcoming, what I expect the NBC to do is to go to the ground (field), act as a neutral body, do the right thing and then ask the Federal Government to help you enforce your decision." Presenting the state position, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Biriyai Dambo (SAN) gave a historical perspective to the unresolved boundary dispute between Bayelsa and Rivers. According to Mr. Dambo, the Nembe people in Bayelsa have always had boundaries with Bille and not the Kula (Kalabari) people who migrated from Duke Town in Calabar to settle in Rivers State. He said the Nembe people gave the area called Saka, which is erroneously called Soku to the Elem-Sangama Community also known as New Calabar (Kalabari) in 1918 with an agreement duly signed between chiefs of the two areas in 1919. Dambo said," An agreement made on the 4th day of July 1919 between the Chiefs of Nembe and Sangama (Kalabari) people ceded the land along Oluasiri River (San Bartholomew) to the Sangama people as tenants for a term of six years at the pleasure of the Chiefs of Nembe." On his part, the host deputy governor, Barrister Kingsley Otuaro, identified lack of will as the cause of NBC's inability to exercise its statutory responsibility, which he noted, had caused incalculable damage in border communities. While calling on the Commission to live up to its billing, he expressed readiness on the part of both Delta and Edo state governments to pull resources together for NBC to go into fieldwork and settle their boundary dispute. Otuaro said, "NBC seems to be lacking the strong will to do what they are statutorily empowered to do. Series of meetings have been held in both states and many communique signed, some of which the NBC was also part of. But from then till now, we have not seen any tangible results. "We are calling on you (NBC) to put modalities in place for us to go to the field, than for us to be gathering every day and be speaking grammar and signing communique. Please let us not allow these disputes to degenerate to a point where it will become too difficult for us to handle." Edo and Akwa Ibom states also made presentations at the event while Rivers and Cross River were absent. Responding, the Director-General of National Boundary Commission, Surveyor Adamu Adaji, promised to use more of what he described as "Ground to Paper Approach, which emphasizes the synergy between the Commission and other stakeholders in resolving boundary disputes. Government officials who accompanied Senator Ewhrudjakpo to the event included the Commissioner for Land and Survey, Mr. Andrew Esau, his Local Government Administration counterpart, Chief Thompson Amule, and state Surveyor-General, Surveyor Gede Moses Others were Chairman of Yenagoa Local Council, Mr. Uroupaye Nimizuo, his Ekeremor counterpart, Dr. Perekeme Bertola, and Secretary of the State Boundary Committee, Mr. Amah Konugah. https://www.facebook.com/108934160830536/posts/295500512173899/
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| Politics / Agric Revolution: Bayelsa Partners CBN To Boost Food Production by NewBAYELSA: 1:17pm On Apr 24, 2021 |
AGRIC REVOLUTION: BAYELSA PARTNERS CBN TO BOOST FOOD PRODUCTION. The Bayelsa State Government says its investments in agriculture in partnership with the Central Bank of Nigeria in different areas including rice production will start yielding returns before the end of this year.https://www.facebook.com/108934160830536/posts/292585912465359/ 1 Like 1 Share
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| Politics / Alleged Bayelsa Youth Killing: Autopsy Gives Police Clean Bill Of Health by NewBAYELSA: 3:46pm On Apr 23, 2021 |
ALLEGED BAYELSA YOUTH KILLING: AUTOPSY GIVES POLICE CLEAN BILL OF HEALTH ... NHRC, Okoba Family Beg for Corpse Burial. The Bayelsa State Government has received the report of the panel set up last month to unravel the cause of the death of one Mr Samuel Okoba from Ovom Community in Yenagoa Local Government Area of the state. The report was presented to the Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo in Government House, Yenagoa on Thursday by the Vice Chancellor of Bayelsa Medical University and Chairman of the Panel, Professor Ebitimitula Etebu. Professor Etebu stated that the autopsy carried out on Samuel's body indicated that the 17-year-old youth died as a result of bleeding from a cut on one of the major arteries on his neck. The report stressed that the injury was not connected with gunshot, thereby absolving the police of complicity in the death of Mr Okoba, which is contrary to earlier reports and speculations that greeted the March 18, 2021 incident. He explained that the process was transparent as representatives comprising the deceased's family, Ovom Community, government, the police and human rights organizations witnessed all aspects of the autopsy. The report reads in part, "There is bleeding into the soft tissue of the left side of the neck beneath a transverse laceration.The reason is because the laceration cut one of the major vessels on the neck and he started bleeding outside. "Because we were dealing with a probable gunshot wound, we did an X-ray of the whole bones of the body. But we did not see any metal in the bones . "In conclusion, the anatomical findings showed he was severely pale. The cause of the death from what we found is that he bled to death from the cut into a major vessel." Responding, Senator Ewhrudjakpo, expressed sadness over the unfortunate passing of young Okoba, noting that government deliberately insisted on the involvement of all parties for truth and justice to prevail. The Deputy Governor, who appreciated the Okoba family and Ovom Community for their show of what he described as rational understanding, promised that government would look into their requests including the release of the corpse for burial. On complaints of insecurity in the Ovom area of the Yenagoa metropolis, Senator Ewhrudjakpo assured that government would take a holistic look at it and proffer solutions. Also speaking, the Member representing Yenagoa Constituency 1 at the Bayelsa House of Assembly, Hon Oboku Oforji, also thanked the Okoba family for accepting the report of the panel. While condemning incessant harassment of innocent people in the community by security operatives, he advised youths in the state to desist from cultism and drug abuse. Reacting to the allegation of harassment by security agents, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, CP Akpoebi Agberebi (Retd), noted that Ovom had been flagged as one of the communities that harbor youths engaged in cultism and other criminal activities. He urged parents and community leaders to work closely with relevant authorities to address the disturbing menace to safeguard a better future for their wards and children. In their separate submissions, the representative of the Okoba Family, Mr. James Okoba, and a Leader of Ovom Community, Chief Loveday Abaribote expressed satisfaction with the level of transparency and diligence employed in the process of Investigation. According to them, they were among the parties that witnessed the whole process of the autopsy, which lasted for more than three hours. While announcing his family's acceptance of the report, Mr. Jacob Okoba, however, appealed to the government for the release of the remains of the deceased for burial as part of measures to assuage their grief and pain. Meanwhile, the Coordinator of the Bayelsa Office of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Mr. Eugene Baadom, has also given a clean bill of health to the Panel's report and called for the prompt release of Okoba's body for burial. Source: Office of the deputy governor Bayelsa state.
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| Politics / Insecurity: Bayelsa Govt To Relaunch Own Security Outfit "Operation Doo- Akpo" by NewBAYELSA: 2:33pm On Apr 21, 2021 |
INSECURITY: BAYELSA GOVT TO RELAUNCH OWN SECURITY OUTFIT "OPERATION DOO- AKPO" Bayelsa State Government says it will soon relaunch its security outfit, codenamed ,"Operation Doo- Akpo" to complement the efforts of other security agencies in the maintenance of law and order in the state. The Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, made this known on Tuesday at a meeting with traditional rulers from Yenagoa Local Government Area in Government House, Yenagoa. Senator Ewhrudjakpo, in a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Mr Doubara Atasi, restated the need for traditional rulers to be vigilant and take charge of security in their domains. Reminding them of the acts of banditry and wanton destruction of lives and property in other parts of the country, he however, assured that government was working hard to strengthen the security architecture of the state to make it more effective and efficient. His words, "We are trying to revamp Doo-Akpo. In the next couple of months, it will be back to its usual capacity of responding to distress calls promptly. They are being equipped. "In terms of maritime security, we are not leaving anything to chance. Very soon, we will work with the House of Assembly to get a law on maritime curfew, so that no speed boats will move at 7pm, except on special duty. We will then activate the Marine Police." He further explained that youths in the communities would also be involved in the security arrangement where there would be a collaboration with the paramount rulers and the Community Development Committees to prevent criminals from infiltrating villages to perpetrate crime. The Deputy Governor also expressed displeasure over what he termed politicisation of security issues in the state since 2015 by some people who claim to be connected to higher authorities in the country. Responding to the concern raised by the Ebenibe of Atissa Kingdom, King Godwin Igodo, he maintained that the new security structure would enable traditional rulers to have direct access to the Special Adviser on Security to fight crimes in their communities. He said "There has been politicisation of security issues since 2015 in this state. And the Government that has exclusive control over security has refused to rise to the occasion of insecurity in the name of politics. "They have nurtured, fed and grown monsters. But I can assure you that things are changing gradually. Within the confines of our laws , they will be tackled and this place will be too hot for them. It's better for them to change now or they leave the state." Also responding to claims that government had always been part of signing of Global Memoranda of Understanding (GMOU) in the area, Senator Ewhrudjakpo, pointed out that the implementation had always been shrouded in secrecy, thereby making supervision by government difficult. According to him, government wants to be directly involved in the preparation, signing and supervision of GMOUs between corporate organizations and communities to protect the interest of the people. Summarizing the presentations of his colleagues, the Commissioner for Information, Hon Ayibaina Duba, stated that the Prosperity Government was determined to positively impact on the lives of the people through its policies and programmes. He therefore charged the traditional rulers to assist in the protection of oil facilities and other government infrastructure in their various domains since the revenue accruing to the state mainly depends on the volume of crude oil produced from the state. Also speaking, the state House of Assembly members from Yenagoa including Mrs Ebiuwou Koku Obiyai, Mr Ted Elemeforo and Mr Oforji Oboku as well as the Mayor of Yenagoa City, Mr Uroupaye Nimizuo gave account of their stewardship to their constituents. In his contributiion, the Chairman of Yenagoa Traditional Rulers Council and the Ibenanaowei of Gbarain Kingdom, King Funpere Akah, lamented that the state government had taken over almost all the sources of revenue to the local government area. King Akah, who appealed to the present administration to return all IGR producing facilities legally owned by the Yenagoa Council, pledged the commitment of the traditional rulers to work with government to enhance peace and development in the state. In his submission, the Clanhead of Ekpetiama, King Bubaraye Dakolo, stressed the need for proper management of oil and gas resources for the benefit of the people, which he noted, would go a long way to reduce crime and insecurity in the state. On his part, the representative of the Ebenibe of Atissa Kingdom, and Paramount Ruler of Yenagoa Town, Chief Clarkson Kikile, blamed the rising insecurity in the state on lack of prosecution of criminals arrested by vigilante groups. Over forty traditional rulers from the area, including the Obenibe of Epie Kingdom, King Malla Sasime and 96 years old Amananaowei of Tombia Community, Chief Christian Otobotekere, attended the meeting. Source: deputy governor's office.
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| Politics / NCAA Approves Commercial Flight Operations At Bayelsa Airport. by NewBAYELSA: 11:00am On Apr 18, 2021 |
NCAA Approves Commercial Flight Operations At Bayelsa Airport. *It's A Dream Come True - Gov Diri After months of expectation, the Bayelsa State-owned airport, on Saturday, finally got the nod of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to commence commercial flight operations. The NCAA Director General, Dr. Nuhu Musa, presented the regulatory body's approval letter to an elated Governor Douye Diri in Government House, Yenagoa, after the team completed the mandatory inspection of the airport and its facilities. Dr. Musa said the airport met all airspace standards and is one hundred percent ready for daytime flight operations. The governor's Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, quoted the NCAA DG as saying that the approval was sequel to the report of the agency’s inspection team, which before the visit had certified that out of 29 gaps, the airport was able to close 26. He noted that other requirements were non-safety-related and that work was already in progress to achieve night flight operations. He said the agency had to limit flight operations to daytime as the runway lights were being installed, noting that once completed, full approval would be granted. Musa commended the state government for the quality of work done at the airport and the capable personnel from the state that facilitated the issuing of the license. Responding, Governor Diri, who was full of joy, expressed appreciation to God for making the long-awaited day possible. He said issuing the operational license was a winding journey that began from the administration of his immediate past predecessor to when he assumed duty over a year ago. Senator Diri commended former Governor Seriake Dickson for his foresight in ensuring that the state had its airport. He noted that Senator Dickson started the project, which had been on the drawing board of past administrations, and saw to its completion before handing it over to him. He said his administration was, therefore, determined to ensure flight operations commenced as he set the machinery in motion to get the NCAA nod. His words: “This is a dream come true for our state and our people. I thank God Almighty because this journey had been a winding one from my immediate past predecessor and I have been in the saddle for over a year waiting for this license. Today, God made it possible. “I also thank my predecessor, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson. This airport had been on the drawing board but he took the bull by the horns by starting and virtually completed it. May I on behalf of this government and the people of Bayelsa appreciate him. “As I came on board, having seen what he did, my administration had to cross the T's and dot the I's. Having been briefed on certain requirements, I wasted no time in approving what was necessary to ensure that the airport was ready for use. Today, we have the approval for the airport to commence commercial flight operations.” Diri also expressed appreciation to the Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, the NCAA DG, and officials for the approval and promised to do all it takes to get full flight operations. He averred that all the necessary facilities and equipment were in place and would be installed in no distant time, especially all the runway lighting systems. He said the importance of an airport cannot be overemphasized, particularly in the South-South region that is the center of oil and gas activities in the country. "Bayelsa State is a major contributor to the oil and gas business in Nigeria. Bayelsa is the center not only of oil and gas but also other economic activities within the South-South and the South-East. “So, the Bayelsa airport is critical not only to Bayelsans but indeed the people of the South-South, South-East and by extension the nearby countries. We are at the border with the Gulf of Guinea,” he said. 2 Likes
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| Politics / Brass Fertilizer: Stakeholders Applaud Govt For Protecting Community Interest. by NewBAYELSA: 5:04pm On Apr 13, 2021 |
BRASS FERTILIZER: STAKEHOLDERS APPLAUD GOVT FOR PROTECTING COMMUNITY INTEREST. ...Our Position on GMOUs Is To Guard Against Shortchanging of Communities-Govt 12/04/2021 Bayelsa state government has clarified that its stance of being involved in the preparation of the Global Memorandum of Understanding ((GMOs) is to protect the interest of communities that enter into such agreements with corporate organizations operating in the state. The state Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, clarified on Monday at a meeting with Traditional Rulers from Brass Local Government Area in his office in Yenagoa. He assured that Government would do everything within its reach to ensure the successful implementation of the agreement between the Brass Fertilizer Company and the people of Brass. The Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo said the government's intervention in the contract was to protect the people from being shortchanged rather than scuttle the take-off of the project as speculated in the New Media by mischief-makers. In a press release by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Doubara Atasi, he reminded the people that conflicts in most communities were traceable to particularly oil companies' failure in honoring memoranda of understanding with their host communities. Accordingly, he said henceforth all such MoUs must be signed with the involvement of the state government to avert situations where a company would renege on its agreements and promote peace in the communities. His words, "Now on the issue of companies not recognizing communities, there is a rule/law that states that if you are not a party to an agreement, you cannot acquire right and incur liability. " If there is an agreement and there is no third party that witnessed the agreement, it becomes a problem, because when they (companies) overwhelm you, there is nothing you can do. "So, what the government is trying to do is to put an eye and watch and not that it wants to take over the running of MoUs. Rather, the government wants to ensure that if a company is coming to operate, for example, in Twon-Brass, we must know what the company is coming to do there and the content of the agreement they sign with the community. "The government is not scuttling your MoU with companies. If the government is in the know of what you have signed with them, it can then force the companies to implement what they have agreed to do." While also highlighting the role of the traditional institution in society, Senator Ewhrudjakpo urged royal fathers, local government council chairmen, and other community leaders to step up efforts at assisting security personnel by profiling visitors to various communities in the state. Senator Ewhrudjakpo equally expressed displeasure over the inability of local government council chairmen to meet monthly with other stakeholders in their areas as directed by the state government. In their separate remarks, member representing Brass Constituency Two and Minority Whip in the State House of Assembly, Hon. Ombo Agala and Dr. Charles Daniel representing Brass Constituency One commended the Senator Douye Diri-led administration for taking a bold step in protecting the overall interest of Brass people in the Brass Fertilizer project. Hon. Agala also lauded the state government's efforts at providing security patrol for trader boats, pleading that additional security measures should be taken to safeguard passenger boats in addition to other strategies of stamping out the activities of sea pirates from the waterways. Also, Chairman, State Traditional Rulers Council and Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass, King Alfred Diete-Spiff, advocated the need to look into the welfare of traditional rulers. King Diete-Spiff also spoke on the need to prevail on the federal government for the completion of the Nembe-Brass road, Brass LNG, create more local government areas, establish waterways safety corps, training boat builders among others. Other traditional rulers who spoke were, Chief Baratuaipre Eketei Amaene, Amanyanabo of Die-ama community, Acting Clan Head of Akassa Kingdom Chief P. W. Consul-Oluku and Dr. Alali Ikpeyaigula, Amanyanabo of Akabeleu-ama community. Others are, Chief Golden Ebiye Siriteh, Amadabo of Kemmer Town, Twon Brass, Regent Chief Rowland Tamunobere of Lima community, and Chief Beinmo Spiff, Amadabo of Cameron-Ama. Also at the meeting, some top government functionaries including the Commissioner for Solid Minerals, Dr. Ebieri Jones, and Commissioner for Special Duties, Bayelsa East, Hon. Preye Broderick highlighted ongoing activities in their ministries in line with the policy thrust of the Prosperity administration.
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| Politics / Insecurity: Bayelsa To Set Up Surveillance Teams To Police Communities by NewBAYELSA: 12:54pm On Apr 09, 2021 |
INSECURITY: BAYELSA TO SET UP SURVEILLANCE TEAMS TO POLICE COMMUNITIES ...As Traditional Rulers Blame Politicians for Cultism Worried by the rising level of banditry and other forms of insecurity in parts of the country, Bayelsa State Government has charged traditional rulers to set up surveillance teams in their various domains. Speaking in his office in Yenagoa during a meeting with traditional rulers from his native Sagbama Local Government Area on Thursday, the state Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, described the measure as part of efforts to scale up security in the state. He urged royal fathers to choose willing and able members of their communities to be part of the vigilante group, which mandate among others, includes combing the forests and reporting illegal camps to law enforcement agencies. Senator Ewhrudjakpo stressed the need for Bayelsans to learn from happenings in other parts of the country and cooperate with government by intensifying their efforts at monitoring as well as volunteering useful information to duly constituted authorities. He directed Local Government Chairmen to hold monthly meetings with traditional rulers, noting it would contribute to peace and stability in rural communities and the state in general.. Responding to a request made by the Ibenanaowei of Tungbo-Ibe, Pere Coleman Agbalalah, the Deputy Governor promised that government would look into the issue of upgrading some chieftaincy stools in the state. He assured the people of Sagbama that all projects started by the previous administration in the area would be completed in due course of time. His words, "There is already a machinery we have set up for local government council chairmen to meet with first class, second class, third and fourth class traditional rulers in their local government areas every month. "But the core message today, is that, we now have to set up security surveillance in our communities that will be supervised by the paramount rulers. There is nobody who can be more vigilant than the traditional rulers in their domains. "We believe that they have eagle eyes and if we must have peace in our communities, they must be involved in the process. You have to look around and select capable people into the surveillance teams. "They have to comb everywhere including our forests to get rid of criminal elements. We must learn from what is happening elsewhere and take all necessary proactive steps to nip it in the bud before it consumes us. "Success must not be 100% but effort must be 100%. So all hands must be on deck to ensure that our communities are safe." In his remarks, Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Maxwell Ebibai, expressed concern over the upsurge in cultism and drug abuse in rural areas and also called for efforts to preserve the izon language, which he noted, is fast sliding into extinction. On his part, the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Development, Chief Thompson Amule, advised the traditional rulers against involvement in partisan politics and taking sides in community development committee (CDC) and youth elections. Also speaking, the Ibenanaowei of Oyiakiri Kingdom, King Joshua Igbagara lamented the relegation of traditional rulers to the background in the scheme of things and called for a change. Other traditional rulers including the paramount ruler of Okugbe-Isoko Kingdom, King Frank Okurakpo, the Amananaowei of Ofoni, Chief Onakpohor Auditor and the Amananaowei of Toru-Orua, Chief Tounaregha Felagha, thanked government for initiating the meeting and pledged commitment to the fight against criminal activities. They however identified political godfatherism as a major factor encouraging cultism and called on government to caution its officials as well as increase the welfare package of traditional rulers to enable them play their roles effectively. The Attorney General of the state, Mr Biriyai Dambo (SAN), Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr David Alagoa, the Amananaowei of Sagbama Town, Chief Moses Magbisa and his Aduku counterpart, Chief Emmanuel Emberru were among participants that made presentations at the meeting.
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| Politics / Land Dispute: The Government Of Bayelsa State Tasks Isoni, Azama Communitie by NewBAYELSA: 3:25pm On Apr 08, 2021 |
Land Dispute: The Government of Bayelsa State Tasks Isoni, Azama Communities on Peaceful Coexistence Bayelsa State Government has again urged the people of Isoni and Azama communities to keep the peace, saying its mediatory committee is doing everything possible to resolve the age-long land dispute between them. The state Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who made the call at a meeting with representatives of the two neighboring communities in his office in Yenagoa, noted that the Committee has recorded appreciable progress in its assignment. The Deputy Governor commended both communities for their show of understanding and cooperation so far and urged them to maintain the prevailing peaceful disposition. He, however, said the government would not hesitate to make good its earlier warning of dealing decisively with any individual who does anything to threaten or disrupt the existing peace in the area under the pretext of protecting his or her interest in the dispute. Senator Ewhrudjakpo restated that the present administration places a high premium on the protection of lives and property, and therefore would not fold its arms and watch anybody take the laws into his or her hands for any reason. While assuring law-abiding members of the two communities of government's protection, the Deputy Governor charged them to promptly report individuals whose activities might constitute a security threat in the area to appropriate government agencies for action. In their separate submissions, the Ibenanaowei of Oyiakiri Clan, King Joshua Igbagara, and his Apoi counterpart, King Ikpangi Perekibina, commended the state government for the steps taken so far to resolve the land dispute between Isoni Community in Sagbama Local Council Area and Azama in Southern Ijaw. They both committed to the peace process and assured the government of their support in the maintenance of law and order in the area. Present at the meeting were the Chairman of Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, Chief Nigeria Kia, his Sagbama counterpart, Mr. Embeleakpo Alale, the state Attorney General, Mr. Biriyai Dambo (SAN), Commissioner for Lands and Survey, Mr. Esau Andrew, and the Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Community Development, Chief Thompson Amule.
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| Politics / Bayelsa Govt To Review Chieftaincy And Community Administration Law by NewBAYELSA: 11:21am On Apr 07, 2021 |
BAYELSA GOVT TO REVIEW CHIEFTAINCY AND COMMUNITY ADMINISTRATION LAW ...Calls for Inputs from Traditional Rulers, Others. Bayelsa State government on Tuesday announced plans to review its Chieftaincy and Community Administration Law to enable traditional rulers to contribute more effectively towards good governance and community development. The state Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who disclosed this during a meeting with traditional rulers from the Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of the state, said the review has become necessary to promote peace and development in the various communities. According to a press release by the Senior Special Assistant to the Deputy Governor on Media, Mr. Doubara Atasi, Senator Ewhrudjakpo noted that the existing Chieftaincy and Community Administration Law has certain lapses that need to be addressed. Senator Ewhrudjakpo assured the people of Southern Ijaw and other communities in the state that government is concerned about their welfare and will stop at nothing to ensure that they get what is due them both from the government and companies operating in their areas. The state number two man called on traditional rulers to identify basic social amenities needed in their areas and furnish his office with the same for government to take necessary action within limits of available resources. He also stressed the need for communities to involve the government in the preparation and signing of The global Memorandum of Understanding (GMOs) with companies operating in their areas to avoid the problems usually associated with the implementation of such agreements. Senator Ewhrudjakpo frowned at the situation whereby GMOs are signed without the government's involvement ut brought to the attention of the state government only when conflicts arise. As part of efforts to secure the communities, the state Deputy Governor also urged traditional rulers to provide registers for visitors to enter their identity and purpose of visit to any community for easy monitoring. He noted that the prosperity agenda of the current administration would be impactful only when there are peace and security, and therefore called for cooperation between government and traditional rulers to enhance security in the state. Senator Ewhrudjakpo promised to make the meeting with the traditional rulers on a local government by local government basis more regular to cross-fertilize ideas on peaceful coexistence and community development. His words: "You can be sure that as a government the interests of our communities are paramount to us and we will always protect them. My thinking may be different from yours but when we cooperate, we can achieve success together. "Going forward, we are going to look at how we can work together in ways that will be mutually beneficial to both the communities and state government. One issue that is causing problems in our communities is the poor implementation of GMoUs by the oil companies. "From our experience, I don't think I need to stress the need why the government should be involved in the signing of GMOs with IOCs. Government is here to protect your interest. So going forward, the government will play a role to protect the interest of our communities. "To promote development and peace at the community level, we have resolved to review the existing Chieftaincy and Community Administration Law to address some of the lapses we have observed. So, we will need inputs from the traditional rulers and other stakeholders for the amendment of this Law. For now, as part of our security measures, every community should have a visitor's register to monitor the movement of people to and from the communities." In his remarks, Secretary to the State Government, Konbowei Benson, lauded traditional rulers for their support and urged them to continually cooperate with the government for better service delivery. In their separate presentations, Commissioners for Health, Information, Mineral resources, Agriculture, Justice, and Attorney General of the state, all highlighted the strides of government in their various ministries and called on the royal fathers to show greater support for the government to succeed. Taking turns to speak, the traditional rulers including the Ibenanaowei of Bomo Clan, King Joshua Igbugburu, commended the government for the meeting and called for its sustenance to move the various communities and the state forward. Source: From the Office of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa state.
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| Politics / Bayelsa Govt Warns Promoters Of Communal Crisis. by NewBAYELSA: 7:09pm On Apr 05, 2021 |
BAYELSA GOVT AGAIN WARNS PROMOTERS OF COMMUNAL CRISIS ...Wants Arrest of Killers of Bilabiri CDC Chair. 5/4/2021 Bayelsa State Government has restated its determination to deal decisively with any individual or groups found culpable of fomenting trouble in communities in their quest for leadership. The government which decried the recurring power tussle in some communities, condemned the killing of one Mr. Frank Seide of Bilabiri Two Community in Ekeremor Local Government Area by criminal elements some few days ago. Speaking at separate meetings with representatives of Bilabiri communities in Ekeremor and Ogboinbiri Community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area on Sunday, the state Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, expressed displeasure over the acrimonious manner people justle for community leadership. In a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Doubara Atasi, Senator Ewhrudjakpo, noted that reports of rising insecurity in Ekeremor and Southern Ijaw mainly due to community elections do not speak well of the two areas. The Deputy Governor, therefore, urged stakeholders of the councils to work closely with the state government to bring what he described as an embarrassing and worrisome situation under control. Commenting further on the killing of Mr Seide, Senator Ewhrudjakpo, vowed that government would do all within its powers to bring those who perpetrated the dastardly act to justice to serve as deterrent to other criminals. To this end, he called on security agencies to expedite action on the arrest, proper investigation and prosecution of all those responsible for the heinous crime. The Deputy Governor, who asserted that illegality cannot be used to right any wrong, noted that the breach of law by anyone is not a justifiable reason to take his or her life without any sentence from a court of competent jurisdiction. On the Ogboinbiri Community Development Committee (CDC) chairmanship issue, Senator Ewhrudjakpo advised the two parties to reconcile their differences in the interest and greater good of the community. He said although the matter is now in court, government will do everything within its reach to ensure its amicable settlement for law and order to prevail. The Deputy Governor, however, charged Bayelsa youths not to limit themselves to the confines of their respective communties, but rather develop themselves intellectually and in entrepreneurial skills to compete favourably with their peers elsewhere. He also urged them to be law abiding and assured that the present administration would stop at nothing in its bid to create an enabling environment for sustainable prosperity and development in the state His words: "The state government is disturbed about the kind of reports we are getting concerning communties in Ekeremor and Southern Ijaw Local Government Areas. The do or die attitude with which they struggle for either CDC or Chieftaincy position is really disheartening. "I'm not saying we don't have such issues in other areas. But the truth is that we have preponderance of it from Ekeremor and Southern Ijaw. And I think it should be a thing of concern to every well meaning stakeholder in these areas. "They should work hand in hand with government to bring this embarrassing situation under control because it does not paint a good image about us in any way. “On the killing of Frank Seide, we are determined to take the right steps to bring those responsible for this heinous crime to justice. We are a government and we will not allow people to take laws into their hands. "Whether it is connected to surveillance contract or CDC Chairman, there are courts to channel your grievances. You don’t take somebody’s life all because his tenure was allegedly (unilaterally) extended by the paramount ruler. I don’t think somebody breaching the law is sufficient reason to take his life without a court sentence." Speaking earlier, Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Mike Ogbere and Paramount Ruler of Bilabiri 2 Community, Chief Minna Amotete, both appreciated the state government for showing concern and called for the deployment of security operatives in the community. On his part, the Member representing Southern Ijaw Constituency 4 in the State House of Assembly, Chief MacDonald Igbadiwe, advocated for a legislation to regulate the CDC system, which he noted would go a long way in addressing conflicts in most of the communities. In their separate submissions, the Chairman of Southern Ijaw Council, Chief Nigeria Kia and his Ekeremor counterpart, Hon. Bertola Perekeme, recounted their efforts at maintaining peace and stability in their areas and called for assistance from other quarters. The Ibenanaowei of Apoi Clan, King Ikpangi Perekebina, and the Vice Chairman of Ogboinbiri Council of Chiefs, Chief Nicodemus Edugo were among those who made submissions at the meeting where the state Commissioner of Police, Mr Mike Okoli was represented by one of his deputies, DCP Ogundare Dare.
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| Politics / Azuzuama Leadership Tussle: Bayelsa Govt. Warns Against Forceful Takeover. by NewBAYELSA: 1:41pm On Mar 31, 2021 |
Azuzuama Leadership Tussle: Bayelsa Govt Warns Against Forceful Takeover of Leadership in Communities. Bayelsa State Government on Monday warned against alleged attempts by some persons to forcefully take over the leadership of the Azuzama Kingdom in the Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of the state. Governor Douye Diri, who issued the warning at a meeting in Yenagoa involving the state government, security agencies, and representatives of Azuzuama Kingdom, stressed that his administration would do everything within its reach to maintain law and order in the state. Represented by his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, the Governor frowned at reports of unrest in Azuzuama over leadership position, a development which he described as mundane and uncalled for. He maintained that government would not fold its arms and watch anybody or group of persons take the laws into their hands under any guise to cause insecurity in any community. While urging the people of Azuzama to remain peaceful, the Governor cautioned those who are seeking to lead, to do so by following due process in the interest of peace and stability for sustainable development and prosperity to thrive in the various communities. Governor Diri lauded leaders of the community for their peaceful disposition and decision to involve the state government and called on all the parties to embrace dialogue as a means of resolving the issue rather than resort to violence. He assured that the state government would investigate reports of unrest in the kingdom to ensure that peace prevails in the area. His words: "Nobody can intimidate the State Government or the Governor or anybody in government from doing what is right, which is the protection of lives and property." "We are going to do that because it is a sacred duty. We swore an oath to protect lives and property. I can assure the community that they should just remain calm and peaceful. There is a government in this state. We are not in a banana republic." "I can assure you that we will do all within our powers to ensure that nobody uses any force to take over leadership in any of our communities. We will not allow that to happen. We will explore all avenues to bring the situation in Azuzuama under control." Earlier, the Amananowei of Ariwei-Ama, one of the federating communities of Azuzuama, Chief Foncha Ekeuwei-Ariwei, lamented that since the death of the Ibenanaowei of the Azuzuama Kingdom in 2013, the people have not had a replacement. He, however, noted that efforts to enthrone a new Ibenanaowei, including the successful review of the Kingdom's Constitution had reached an advanced stage before some disgruntled elements suddenly emerged and "are trying to use brute force to scuttle the process." Chief Ekeuwei-Ariwei who spoke on behalf of the leaders of the five Azuzuama communities, alleged that the activities of the dissident group aided by some security agents were threatening the peace of the area. He, therefore, solicited the state government's intervention to restore law and order in the kingdom and ensure that due process prevails in the election of a new Ibenanaowei of Azuzuama Kingdom. In their separate remarks the Commander, 16 Brigade Nigerian Army, Yenagoa, Brigadier General E.T Essien, and the state police commissioner, Mike Okoli denied the deployment of their personnel to support any group in Azuzuama. They promised to investigate the allegation and assured the government and people of their neutrality to maintain peace and security in Azuzuama and other parts of the state. In their contributions, Secretary to the State Government, Rt. Hon. Benson Konbowei, the Chairman, Southern Ijaw Council, Chief Nigeria Kia, and Commissioner for Power, Mr. Ebitei Robert, all expressed worry and called for urgent actions to de-escalate rising tensions in the area. Source: Office of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State.
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