The Baale of Mamu land,Chief Fredrick Ayotokunbo Fadipe FIIP congratulates Ogun Governor elect in the just concluded 2023 Governorship and State House of Assembly Election,His Excellency Governor Dapo Abiodun MFR as he was declared winner by the Electoral Umpire, INEC in Abeokuta.


Chief Fadipe who admonishes the dogged Governor on his re-election victory to do more towards taking the Gateway state to an enviable height while bringing everyone on board for the benefits of its citizenry.

According to the Baale of Mamu land,"what we should be focused on right now is to work towards the actualisation of Prince Dapo Abiodun's Manifestos as outlined during his campaign for a better and more robust state while carrying everyone along irrespective of political affiliation."


"It is time for supporters of political parties and Political Gladiators allow peace rein but can approach the court for electoral issues through legal means for redress,I equally extend my congratulatory messages to all winners of other political offices declared by INEC.

The Lagos State Police have begun an investigation into the assassination of Ogun State Chief, Femi Egbeoluwa and his wife in the Allen Avenue area of the state.

The couple was reportedly killed by the unknown gunmen, who gained entrance into their home at 1 Adefolu drive, Allen Avenue, in the early hours of Saturday, March 18, 2023.

Egbeoluwa, a former Permanent Secretary of the defunct Bureau of Transportation during the Otunba Gbenga Daniel led- administration in Ogun State, and his wife were left in a pool of blood.

A police source, while speaking with the Nigerian Tribune on the condition of anonymity, said the deceased is a chief from Ilaro in Ogun State.

He added: “We got the report on Saturday. The man and his wife were assassinated, while their house was also injured.”

The Lagos State Police spokesman, Benjamin Hundeyin, also confirmed the incident, stating that an investigation is ongoing.

According to him, the deceased’s househelp was found unconscious during a visit to the scene and she is responding to treatment at the hospital.

The Police spokesman added that no suspect had been arrested in connection with the incident.

Hundeyin said, ”Investigation is ongoing. Policemen have visited the scene. The house help was found unconscious but she is responding to treatment now in the hospital.

“The case has been transferred to the homicide section of the state Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, Yaba. SCID, Panti. No suspect yet.”

By Elias Inaede

Let the trumpet blow, the drum beat,the String play, the Vulvuzella buzz and sing a melodious strong in celebration of a dutiful, resourceful, pragmatic, fearless and a Musical Icon of repute,Uncle One Blow as he marks his birthday today the 19th of March, 2023.

UNCLE ONE BLOW popularly known as (Akabanorde) was born to the renowned Omiawa family of Ivhioche of Ogbona town, Etsako Central Local Government Area of Edo State.

He is a perfect gentleman and a Musical Entrepreneur to the core whose skills have added colour and value to the musical Industry in Afemai Land and the State at large.
He began his Music at a very tender age and was nicknamed One Blow by the early Church of God Mennonite Missionaries residing in Ogbona as a result of his love for Music.

He is naturally talented in Music and was mentored under the tutelage of Late Sir Jericho Oshiorenua who handed over his Certificate of Music to him at the defunct popular Hill Top Hotel, Auchi on 2nd September, 2000.

Uncle One Blow Omiawa is a source of inspiration to upcoming musical Stars. His music has made positive impacts in the Society and his keen interest is on the prosperous future of our upcoming musicians.
He uses music to send message across the world that kindness is the greatest achievement in life.

No wonder he took a bold step to contest as the Deputy Governor of Edo State Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN) and won overwhelmingly to ensure that Afemai Musicians have a voice at the State Level in the decision making of the Body.
Uncle One Blow Omiawa (Akabarnorde) is a young talented Musician that has waxed 22 Albums to his credit. He waxed his first Album in the year 2000 and became the band Leader.

He is an experienced and organized Union Leader with a lot of Fans across Afemai extraction.

Some of his hit tracks records that have brought him to limelight include "Beware of Men and a Nation of Retirees". He advised upcoming Musicians to be focused, be straightforward, respectful and work very hard to achieve their desired dreams.
He is the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of Uncle One Blow Royal Garden Hotel and band Leader, Akabarnorde Musical Band Ventures, Jattu, Uzairue.

He was a former Chairman of Etsako PMAN, a Former Edo State Ex-Officio Member of PMAN. He was also the Edo State immediate Deputy Governor of PMAN. He is presently the President of Afemai Union Europe Home Branch. a Social -Cultural Organization established by Afemai Sons and Daughters in Europe to promote the unity and cultural diversity of Afemai.

He is happily married and blessed with Children.

Operatives of Ogun state Police Command on the 13th of March 2023, arrested three members of a robbery syndicate who have been terrorizing Ewekoro and its environs for quite some time now.

The suspects, Ahmed Isiaha, Sunday Ajibola and Jimoh Wahab were arrested following a distress call received at Ewekoro divisional headquarters that a 4-man robbery gang have invaded Apomu Community in Ewekoro local government area of the state and dispossesing members of the community of their belongings.
Upon the distress call, the DPO Ewekoro division, CSP Jacob Olayemi, quickly mobilized his patrol team and moved to the scene.

On sighting the policemen, the hoodlums took to their heels but they were hotly chased and with assistance from members of the community, three amongst the hoodlums were arrested.

Recovered from them are: one locally fabricated double barrel pistol, five live cartridges, one expended cartridge, one Bajaj motorcycle with registration number TTN 975 VU, one TVS motorcycle with registration number JBD 353 W and some Criminal charms.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, CP Frank Mba, has directed that the suspects be transferred to State Criminal Investigation Departments for discreet investigation.


SP ABIMBOLA OYEYEMI,
POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER,
OGUN STATE POLICE COMMAND.

He said:
"It’s not just “interesting”, it is deeply spiritual that the things of God is foolishness to those who are perishing.

"This is not an emotional and political message. There are people who are blessed to read the signs of the times and to decipher it. But many have eyes and they can’t see. Their minds are too full of bile to be objective. God doesn’t look for perfect men. That was why he was the friend of sinners. Paul was the Boko Haram leader of His time.

"God looks for available men and He looks beyond what the man is and He sees what he can become. He took Moses from the house of Pharaoh. The situation in Nigeria is so bad, Chief Awolowo used to tell us 40 years ago, it will take an insider to change it.

"Some of us supported VP Osinbajo during the contest within APC and I wrote severally against BAT and said it was the time for a new man. They threw all manner of obstacles his way. I have not come across a man more vilified, but he overcame every formidable obstacle. For 8 years since he helped Buhari to win, the man suffered all manner of degradation. Only an angel could’ve maneuvered what that man went through.

"All the powers that be worked against him, yet the man survived against all expectations. This is the man from the house of Pharaoh. He knows the system and has benefited from it. He knows where the mines are laid. I hope to God he knows what it is to live for history. He has had enough of everything. This man is no fool. He is cleverer that many of his opponents combined. All that remains for him is to carve his name in the books of history by living for the ordinary man. He has sought it so diligently. He can’t do it alone but can lead the way. Let’s rally round him."

~ Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

Operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) have arrested one Dayo Jimoh ‘m’ aged 36 along Ojodu-Berger Road, Lagos after he and two others (still at large) hijacked two vehicles at gunpoint.

Dayo was arrested at about 0230hrs on Saturday, March 11, 2023, shortly after his gang snatched a 2003 Toyota Corolla with registration number BDG-946-GZ. The suspects arrived in a 2005 Toyota Camry with registration number KRD-958-HS which they earlier snatched at gunpoint at Oworo, while disguising as passengers.

While investigation is ongoing, the owners of the vehicles which were recovered, are hereby urged to come forward with proof of ownership to claim their vehicles. Meanwhile, Commander RRS, CSP Olayinka Egbeyemi have charged his men to intensify efforts to arrest the two fleeing suspects.

SP BENJAMIN HUNDEYIN, anipr, mipra
Police Public Relations Officer,
Lagos State Command,
Ikeja-Lagos.

By Gboyega Akosile

The decision of Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to seek a second term in office, came as no surprise to millions of Lagosians, in that the constitution of land permits him to do so. But the move, no doubt, was greeted by spontaneous excitement among the residents, given the quality of leadership, people-oriented policies and clear governance direction brought to State by Sanwo-olu and his brother, Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat.

Little wonder Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan literally became a beehive on Saturday, December 3, 2022, when All Progressives Congress (APC) flagged off the Governor’s re-election campaign.

Sanwo-Olu, an exemplary public sector reformer and astute politician, known for his love and passion for the public service, has shown leadership in Lagos by giving the electorate a great deal in steering the ship of the nation’s commercial city in the right direction.

As the 15th Lagos Governor, and having worked closely with three previous governors – Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Babatunde Raji Fashola, and Akinwunmi Ambode in different capacities, Sanwo-Olu understands the State and the various challenges facing the mega city. His knowledge of challenges confronting residents made his administration to adopt a six pillars policy programme tagged T.H.E.M.E.S in solving the identified problems through good governance. The six pillars are; Traffic Management and Transportation; Health and Environment; Education and Technology; Making Lagos a 21st Century state; Entertainment and Tourism; Security and Governance. Each of these six pillars is carefully thought-out as the Government’s priorities in delivering solution across sectors.

Sanwo-Olu, in his speech at the swearing-in on May 29, 2019, spoke passionately about his plans for the State, especially his dream of building a Greater Lagos. This passion seemed to have motivated his quest for good governance. The Governor, without any iota of doubt, has delivered significantly on his campaign promises during his first term in office. His achievements are visible in different sectors and have been commended by people within and outside the state.

A little above seven months when the Sanwo-Olu administration had barely settled down, COVID-19 pandemic ravaged the entire world and Lagos became an epicentre of the airborne disease. The Governor showed leadership in rising up to the occasion and responding to the pandemic. As Incident Commander, he protected the citizens of the state by ensuring that the ravaging infection was well managed.

Sanwo-Olu, with the assistance of his Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, and other stakeholders controlled the spread and ensured that those who contracted the virus were well attended to. He was the first governor to come up with a clearly defined containment strategy and response, which was later adopted by the presidency for the national response plan. This intervention by the Sanwo-Olu administration made Nigeria the fourth best country in the world which impressively curbed the spread of the COVID-19 virus according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Sanwo-Olu also displayed great leadership during the #EndSARS demonstration, a youth-motivated civil action against police brutality, which was later hijacked by hoodlums. The campaign, which started peacefully turned violent after it was hijacked, leading to violence and destruction of many private and public properties in Lagos State. Rather than allowing Lagos to be brought to its knees by the ugly incident, Sanwo-Olu rose up to the challenge by championing “Rebuild Lagos” plan.

The administration’s traffic management and transportation blueprint has significantly brought the dream of Lagos to have efficient and reliable intermodal system of transportation to a reality. Sanwo-Olu’ government has invested hugely in waterways and a light rail system as alternatives to road transportation.

The Governor's administration started the 37-km Red Line rail project from the scratch and the project is at completion stage. At full operation, the Red Line will move about a million passengers daily. The administration also injected huge resources into the 13-km Blue Line rail, commissioned in January by President Muhammadu Buhari, to ensure mass mobility from Mile 2 axis into the Island.

To ease traffic gridlock in the metropolis , Sanwo-Olu’s administration built and completed Agege-Pen Cinema dual carriage flyover with adjoining roads in Agege, and also commissioned the Lagos-Ogun network of roads with bridge in Agbado-Oke Odo LCDA. He also carried out Junction Improvements and Reconfiguration at the 18 traffic spots, including first and second Lekki Roundabouts, Allen Avenue, Ajah and Igando. All these are done to reduce traffic gridlock in the State.

In the last three and half years, Governor Sanwo-Olu has constructed and rehabilitated over 1,000 roads while others are at various stages of completion. The plan for construction of the 4th Mainland Bridge is also on course. The incumbent administration also started the Opebi-Ojota Link Bridge, which is expected to be completed this year. The First phase of the six-lane rigid-pavement 18.75km Lekki-Epe Expressway, stretching from Eleko Junction all the way to Epe T-junction, is completed and delivered to the good people of Lagos residing in the Lekki-Epe axis. The Sanwo-Olu administration has also provided thousands of LAGRIDE cars, First and Last Mile buses, and Large Capacity buses and boats for waterways to ease transportation in Lagos.

Sanwo-Olu believes no resources should be spared in providing quality health care to the residents, which is why the State Government delivered secondary health facilities, such as Mother and Child Centers (MCCs) in Eti-Osa, Igando, Epe and Badagry. Lagos Government is building New Massey Children Hospital, which will be the biggest children hospital in West Africa. There is also an ongoing construction of General Hospital in Ojo and development of mental health facility in Ketu Ejinrin.

To address waste management and environmental issues in Lagos, the Sanwo-Olu administration is working hard to rid the State of flood. The State Government has carried out extensive dredging and desilting on many secondary and tertiary drainage channels across the state.

Sanwo-Olu's administration has made a lot of investments in education and technology in Lagos by building thousands of classrooms and providing 380,000 units of composite furniture for the students. Among the iconic school projects built by the Sanwo-Olu government are the new Elemoro Community Junior Secondary School, Ibeju-Lekki, and the containerised modular classroom block in Vetland Junior Grammar School, Agege. The Governor has also rewarded 13 outstanding teachers with new vehicles on two occasions.

The administration has equally made remarkable inroad in the training of teachers for 21st-century competence. It is of note that through the EKO EXCEL training initiative, more than 3,000 primary school teachers have been trained on how to competently utilise technology in teaching, for better educational outcomes for our children. The Government has also paid fully, the WAEC fees of all students in the State’s public secondary schools to date.

Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH) and Lagos State College of Education (LACOED) have been upgraded to universities. Lagos now has three State-owned universities, courtesy of Sanwo-Olu’s education reforms. It should be noted that there have been no disruption of academic activities across Lagos’ tertiary institutions since Sanwo-Olu took over; all issues that relate to students, staff and lecturers’ welfare are promptly attended to.

One of the cardinal programmes of the Governor is Making Lagos a 21st-century economy. In this regard, Sanwo-Olu has recorded a milestone in provision of requisite infrastructure. The recent handover of Lekki Deep Seaport project is a pointer to this. Lagos has also secured an approval for the development of Badagry Port and an international airport in Lekki. All of these will boost Lagos’ economy when completed.

Governor Sanwo-Olu has also made significant progress in Housing sector, as the administration commissioned over 7,000 flats in about 17 housing units in different parts of the state in the last three and half years, while more housing schemes are expected to be delivered in the coming months.

The Sanwo-Olu administration has done so much in the area of agriculture and food security, with initiatives such as the Agro Processing, Productivity Enhancement and Livelihood Improvement Support (APPEALS) Project, designed to build the capacity of players in the rice, aquaculture and poultry value chains. The government has also strengthened the capacity of farmers through the Lagos Agripreneurship Programme (LAP), the Sea Food Festival and the Eko City Farmers Food Market.

Above all, Sanwo-Olu has completed and delivered the all-important Lagos Rice Mill, Imota, Ikorodu. This rice mill will inject over 250,000 direct and indirect jobs into employment space for the youth.

Safety is key for development. The Governor recently commissioned three newly built fire stations and 62 fire fighting equipment. Sanwo-Olu has also made significant development in Entertainment and Tourism, which is the fifth pillar of his administration’s THEMES agenda. He has supported the creative industry across youth-centric initiatives, among which are the building of a Film City and the release of N1 billion seed capital to support the creative sector in Lagos.

As of today, over 3,000 youths have been trained and empowered by the Lagos State Government in partnership with the Africa Film Academy, Del-York Films Academy and EbonyLife Studios.

On security and governance, the administration’s goal is transformational security, using cutting-edge technology. To achieve this, the State Government is building Command-and-Control Centre to efficiently monitor security in the metropolis, while investing heavily in security cameras, data-gathering and processing in order to stay permanently ahead of crime and criminality.

Sanwo-Olu has made Lagos safe and secure through investment in security, which is the reason crime reduced drastically, making Lagos the safest State in Nigeria. The government's decision to ban motorcycles and tricycles on highways and some roads within the state has also led to a reduction in accident victims in the state.

Governor Sanwo-Olu has, without doubt, taken governance to a whole new level during his first term. Therefore, he re-election’s campaign has been based on his sterling performance and hands-on experience. He has delivered on many of his campaign promises and certainly deserves the vote of every forward-looking Lagosian who thinks more about the development of the State.

Akosile is the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Sanwo-Olu

The operatives of the Ogun State Police Command rescued a journalist, Oduneye Olusegun, on 11th March 2023 after he was abducted on 9th March 2023 by some gunmen in the Mobalufon area, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.
The information available indicates that the victim was returning from Abeokuta, the Ogun state capital when he was attacked in his Toyota Camry car and kidnapped at about 1950hrs.
Upon his abduction, his abductors later put a call through to his wife the following morning and demanded N30 million as ransom. The alarming incident was quickly reported to the police.
However, the Commissioner of Police, CP Frank Mba instructed the DPO Obalende divisional headquarters, SP Murphy Salami, whose jurisdiction the incident happened to ensure the safe rescue of the victim. The operative's detectives tactically plotted their intelligence investigation and swung into rescue action immediately.
The detectives' efforts paid off as they traced the victim's Toyota Camry to the Idimu area of Lagos, where the kidnappers were holed up waiting for the ransom. On sighting the policemen, the kidnappers engaged them in a gun duel which lasted for about 45 minutes before they abandoned the car and fled after sustaining varying degrees of gunshot injuries.
Meanwhile, The victim was rescued unhurt, as his car seats were stained with the kidnappers' blood.

The Lagos State Government has noted the hardship sparked by the Naira redesign policy, which has affected business and commercial activities.

There is no reason to reject the old notes, going by the Supreme Court judgement delivered on March 3, 2023.

The apex court declared that “no reasonable notice was given as required by Section 20(3) of the CBN Act,” noting that the public only became aware of the policy through press remarks, which cannot qualify as a notice to the public.

The court maintained that the policy has impeded the functions of State governments, pointing out that the directive that stops the use of the old notes is illegal, unconstitutional, null and void.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has, therefore, called on business owners, especially retailers, to accept the old N500 and N1,000 notes - in line with the Supreme Court judgement that the currency remains legal tender until December 31, 2023. It is illegal to reject the notes.

All agencies of the Lagos State Government are advised not to reject payments made with the old currency by the public.

Gbenga Omotoso
HC, Information & Strategy

- Recover motorcycle, locally made gun and phones.

Detectives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested six armed robbers belonging to two different gangs, notorious for dispossessing unsuspecting victims of their valuables within Ajegunle and Alaba-Rago areas of Lagos State.

The arrest followed swift investigations into reports of activities of the robbers in the areas.

The suspects: Chukwuemeka Emmanuel 'm' aged 21, Chukwuebuka Innocent 'm' aged 24, Umaru Isah 'm' aged 21, Emmanuel Ita ‘m’ aged 19, Olayitan Ayinde ‘m’ aged 18 and Moshood Ayinde ‘m’ aged 25 were arrested in different areas of the state, while efforts are being intensified to arrest other fleeing members of the gangs and recover other weapons.

One unregistered TVS motorcycle, one locally made gun, one Infinix Note 7 and one Iphone 7 were recovered from the suspects. Suspects will be arraigned at the end of investigation.

The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Idowu Owohunwa, charges Lagosians to promptly alert the police to suspicious happenings in their localities to further enable the police rid the state of crime and criminality.


SP BENJAMIN HUNDEYIN, anipr, mipra
Police Public Relations Officer,
Lagos State Command,
Ikeja-Lagos.

Today, Wednesday, 02/03/2023 at about 0730hrs, a distress call was received that terrorists in their numbers, shooting sporadically with AK 47 rifles, attacked Yasore village, Batsari LGA of Katsina state. Consequently, DPO Batsari Division, led a combine team of Police and Vigilante group to the area, engaged the hoodlums into a fierce gun duel and successfully repelled them. In the course of scanning the scene, the team recovered the followings:
Two (2) corpses of neutralized terrorists
Two AK 47 rifles
Five (5) AK 47 rifle’s magazines
Ninety-seven (97) pieces of 7.62mm ammunition of AK 47 rifles
Two ITEL GSM Phones
Bunch of criminal charms
A black bag containing the sum of two thousand, five hundred and eighty thousand naira (N2,580), a lighter, a pen and a blue veil.
Many of the terrorists were reasonably believed to have been neutralized and/or escaped the scene with gunshot wounds. Search parties are combing the nearest bushes with a view of arresting them and/or recovering their dead bodies. The Command is appealing to members of the communities around the area to report to the nearest police station any person found or seen with a suspected injury.

The Commissioner of Police, Katsina state Command, in charge of elections, CP Koo Yusuf, commended the efforts of the Police and the vigilante for the display of uncommon courage, gallantry and professionalism in dealing with the hoodlums, please.






SP GAMBO ISAH, ANIPR,
POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER (PPRO),
FOR: COMMISSIONER OF POLICE,
KATSINA STATE COMMAND.

The Baale of Mamu land,Chief Fredrick Ayotokunbo Fadipe congratulates the President elect of the just concluded 2023 Nigeria Presidential Election,His Excellency Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu as he receives the Certificate of return from INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu in Abuja.


Chief Fadipe who spoke with a cross section of journalist at his abode describes Tinubu as a dogged fighter,who has truly sacrificed from the days of NADECO towards the emancipation and sustainability of true Democracy in Nigeria.


According to the Baale of Mamu land,"what we should be focused on right now is to work towards the actualisation of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Manifestos as outlined during his campaign for a better and more robust country while carrying all Nigerians along irrespective of political affiliation, religion and ethnic background."


"It is time for supporters of political parties and their Chieftains to allow peace rein because of the results announced by the Electoral Umpire which are not satisfactory to them.The tribunal are there to seek redress instead of unnecessary protest because at this crucial time we really do need peace to rein,he added

Chief Fredrick Ayotokunbo Fadipe FIIP has congratulated the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun over his emergence as Forbes Best of Africa Governor in the Industrial Revolution.

The Baale of Mamu Land, Oke-mosan, Abeokuta said it is an award well deserved.

Governor Abiodun had on Friday night won the prestigious Forbes Award as the Best of Africa Governor in the Industrial Revolution for the year 2022, in Abuja.

Chief Fadipe in a statement personally signed by him and made available to newsmen in Abeokuta noted that the award is a confirmation of the governor’s popularity and credence as a progressive governor who has continued to use the State’s resources for the common good of all.

According to him, Abiodun's exemplary leadership qualities have continued to redefine governance and leadership in the state and this has led to the birth of the many laudable projects that has been witnessed in the state.
“Abiodun has so far shown a firm resolve to creating a better reality for everyone in Ogun State, he has made Ogun, a model state of good governance and we are quite delighted that he is being recognised with the Forbes award as the Best of Africa Governor in industrial revolution.
Forbes Award, motivation for more

The Lagos State Fire and Rescuev is currently salvaging a 33,000 Litres tanker conveying PMS outbound Mile 2 which reported accidentally lost control while on motion and fell on its side, thereby spilling its contents at Alaba Express Bus Stop, Apapa Oshodi Expressway, Amuwo Odofin, Lagos.

The incident is being mitigated by the Ajegunle Fire Crew of the Agency and has it under control with no palpable cause for alarm.

An adult male motorcyclist is however trapped beneath the tanker as efforts are ongoing to recover him.

Update to follows.

*Adeseye Margaret*
Director Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service
January 3, 2023

Residents of Joga-Orile, Ibooro, Imasai and Ibese in Yewa North Local government area of Ogun State are gradually heaving a sigh of relieve as the rehabilitation of the 13 kilometer road has commenced.

But with intervention of the Senator representing Ogun West, Senator Tolu Odebiyi, the rehabilitation has started in earnest and it’s being handled by the Federal Maintenance, Agric and Rural Development.

Speaking, Senator Odebiyi advises road users to be cautious on the road and cooperate with the workers especially during this yuletide.

He noted that the job when completed, will ease transportation of agricultural products to the market and further boost socio economic activities around Joga-Orile Ibooro Imasai and Ibese communities.

Senator Odebiyi also enjoined the people to watch over newly installed solar lights around Ayetoro, Igbogila and others to prevent vandals from assessing them and enhance security of the benefited communities.

While appreciating Senator Odebiyi for facilitating the project, Baasi of Joga-Orile, Chief Musa Akinbode said the rehabilitation, when completed, will reduce the hardship being faced by the commuters in the axis.

There was jubilation and celebration as the Twon Brass Kingdom's palace was officially unveiled today, 1st of January 2023.

Their Majesties, the Patriarch and Matriarch of Twon Brass Kingdom in Bayelsa State, King Alfred Papapreye Diete-Spiff and Queen Dr. Josephine Diete-Spiff today led their people to the occasion which happened in grand style.

The Royal Highness, Highnesses, Chief’s, Elders, Women and Youths were excited that they can now have a place to congregate with their King and Queen.

It would be recalled that sometimes last year the Palace was attacked and destroyed along with properties worth millions of Naira by some unscrupulous individuals for no just reasons.

Members of the Community present at the unveiling expressed their happiness, that the palace is opened and commissioned, looking modernized than it was.

They also apologized for what happened in the past and pledged their loyalty and support to the king and Queen while maintaining their readiness to work with others whenever called upon by the King, to do so, come rain or Sun.

The Vicar of St. Banabas, Anglican Communion, Twon Brass Kingdom, Rev. Canon Ben Inemo dedicated and declared the Palace open.

Then, His Majesty, King Alfred Papapreye Diete-Spiff prayed for Blessings, Peace and infrastructural developments for the Twon Brass Kingdom, Bayelsa State and all it's citizenry. He also called for peace during the forthcoming general election and admonished the Youths not to allow greedy politicians use them as instrument of destruction because they are the future hope and leaders of the Country.

His Eminence, King Alfred Diete-Spiff also spoke on the CFR honour conferred on him and his new appointment as Chairman, Diaspora Traditional Rulers. While emphasizing on his age and numerous task ahead of him to be done in the Kingdom, he also thank his wife, Queen Dr Josephine Diete-Spiff for being by his side coupled with her patience, unquantifiable supports and contributions towards the Growth and success of Twon Brass Kingdom.

The charming wife and Opuyinibo of Twon Brass Kingdom, Her Majesty Queen Dr. Josephine Diete-Spiff thank God Almighty for making the Palace reconstruction a reality and also for granting them the opportunity to witness its official unveiling.

She wished everyone a Prosperous 2023 with abundant favours, Protection and fruitfulness on the land.

" While we thank God for letting us see this year, 2023, we pray that God will answer all your prayers and make your dreams come true. Our land shall be fruitful and joy unspeakable will be your portion this year in Jesus Name. You are blessed. Shine for your light is come and the glory of the Lord is risen upon you.", she concluded

Other personalities present at the occasion who expressed their positive feelings towards the new improved palace were HRH Beinmonyoun Rufus-Spiff, CAMERON IX,
Amadabo of Cameron Ama,
HH Dougbani Dickson Dokubo, Amanyanabo's Deputy of Twon Brass Kingdom,Hon. Chief Victor O. Sam-Ateki,
Chairman, Twon Brass Kingdom Council of Chiefs and Elder Lawrence Loveday Suoyomiete
Elder's Council Chairman, Twon Brass Kingdom

The Baale of Mamu Town ,Oke Mosan in Ogun State, Chief Fredrick Ayotokunbo Fadipe,has congratulated the new permanent secretaries appointed by the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun.
Chief Fadipe in a statement personally signed by his media aide, Osoba Olajide lauded the governor for the new development, saying that it came at the right time.
He charged the new appointees to put in their very best while discharging their duties,while stressing the need for them to quickly key into the “Building Our Future Together” Mantras of the Administration.
The Permanent Secretaries are:

1. Engr. Sakirudeen Ayinde Salaam

2. Mr. Adesoji Augustus Adewuyi

3. Mr. Hammed Morakinyo Ojo

4. Mr. Adesina Mufutau Towolawi

5. Dr (Mrs) Olayinka Nike Elemide

The Ogun State governor, Dapo Abiodun, on Thursday, warned Baales who are yet to register with the state government to desist from parading themselves as legitimate or face the consequences.

Governor Abiodun who made this known during the 5th Oko Ilu Day Celebration of the Ogun State Council of Baales, held in Abeokuta, noted that his administration would continue to see those who are yet to register as illegitimate Baales.

" I heard there are 1,700 Baales that are registered in the state. I also heard that there are still over 1,700 yet to be registered. I want to implore those who are yet to register to do so, as our administration will see them as illegitimate Baales, let them go and meet their prescribed authorities so they can also become legitimate Baales," he said.

Abiodun who disclosed that his administration would discuss with the Council of Traditional Rulers in the state on the need to have a payment structure for Baales in the state, added that his administration would also look at a way of funding the traditional council and ensure that a particular percentage of the funding is appropriated towards Baales in the state.

He, however, charged the Council of Baales to educate their subjects on the need to collect their Permanent Voter's Card.

He further urged them not to allow any form of thuggery within their environments.

"We are preparing for the 2023 general election, you are the closest to the grassroot, help us to urge our people to get their permanent voter's cards, most of our permanent voter's card are still with the Independent National Electoral Commission.

"If you don't have your permanent voter's cards, you can't vote, if you are happy with what we are doing, it is with your permanent voter's card you can tell us you appreciate us, therefore, tell your people to get their PVCs.

"We have lowered the political temperature, we have been very tolerant of everyone and every political party, because that is who we are in Ogun State. Don't give any room to thugs in your various communities, don't allow your children to be used as thugs during the election, because anyone that is involved in thuggery will be dealt with," the governor submitted.


Abiodun, while calling on the Council of Baale's to support his second term ambition, said that they shouldn't hand the state over to anyone who has nothing to offer

The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, while speaking on the issue of multiple Baales in the state, noted that the issue which had led to pocket of tension, thereby making life unbearable for the law abiding citizens of the state, had led to the placing on hold of installation of Baales in the state.


Hamzat while noting that the status and image of Baales should be sacred, disclosed that the report often received by the state government on the nefarious activities of some Baales has become a blemish in the garment of many other Baales who are diligently serving the people.

The Commissioner urged the Baales to continue to play their part by sensitizing the people at the grassroot about their civic responsibilities of communal vigilance, political participation and social safety.

In his remarks, the l president of Ogun State Council of Baales, Tunji Falola while noting that the administration of Governor Abiodun in the last three and half years has been of good governance, pointing out that that administration pays apt attention to the yearnings of it's citizens.


Falola while assuring the governor of the council's loyalty and commitment towards the actualisation of his second term bid, declared that that they are happy with his administration.

He described the relationship that exists between the Baales and the traditional rulers in the state as strong, noting that the insinuations that they were rubbing shoulders with traditional rulers in some communities in the state were unfounded rumours.

The Twon Ibe Opuyingibo 1, of Twon Brass Kingdom,Her Majesty Queen Dame Josephine Aruoriwo Alfred Diete-Spiff Esq was honoured by the International Centre for the Research on African Women in Nation Building and Gender Studies (ICRAWINGS) as "HERO OF GENDER ADVOCACY" for selfless and incomparable contributions towards uplifting the living standard of Women and Girl Child in Bayelsa, Nigeria and Africa at large.

The event which was held in Abuja to commemorate the 16 days activism against sexual and gender based violence according to the organization (ICRAWINGS), which is under the authority of Standtall Africa Initiative (STAi).

The Award programme was Graced by His Majesty,King Alfred Pepepreye Diete-Spiff of Twon Brass Kingdom, important dignitaries from all works of life and captains of Industry.

Responding,the Awardee, Queen Josephine Diete-Spiff requested that everyone should join her to thank God for yet another feather added to her already crowded and adorned crown as she bags the Hero of Gender Advocacy Award from such a reputable and life impacting organization.

Dame Josephine Alfred Diete-Spiff,a Queen & Matriarch of Twon Brass Kingdom, Bayelsa State, Past Chairperson, Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Wives Association (BSTWA), President, Royal Queens of the Niger Delta Initiative,

Patron, Advocate for Maternal and Child Health Award - National Council
Women Societies of Nigeria. (NCWS).

Woman of Excellence in Nigeria Award – Thisday Newspaper

Award of Honour to the growth of Entrepreneurship and HR
Development -AETMAN

Distinguished Service Award (DISA) as an Icon of
Transformation- International Centre for Population & Development
Activities (CIPA)

Most Respected Women Professionals in Nigeria, Virtuous
Amazon -The Guardian Newspaper

Gold Award for Selfless Service to Humanity -NEPAD
Bayelsa State

Golden Jubilee Nigerian Women Award for Leadership –
Radio Nigeria

Award of Honour as an Investor in Education - Celebrity Int.
Education Festival

Golden Advocate Award for an immense contribution towards
the progress of the Nigerian Child - African Children Emergency
Foundation (ACEF)


Award of Honour as the most outstanding Queen/Female
Humanitarian of 2018 - Ijaw Women of Substance Worldwide


Lifetime Achievement Award for Humanitarian Services -
Catholic Chaplaincy of the Nigeria Police Force: Our Lady of
Victory Chaplaincy.

Humanitarian Award for selfless Service– Rotary Foundation
International

Selfless Service Award 2012 by Gesi Publications, Bayelsa
State.

Patron, Red Cross Society, Port Harcourt, Patron, Nigerian Girl Guide Association

Chairperson, Board of Trustees; Foundation for Children Orientation, President & Founder Lady Josephine Akporero Diete-Spiff Foundation for Widows, Physically Challenged, Orphans and the Aged.

Matron, Women Wing, Rivers State Chapter of HostCom,

Past Chairperson, NECA’s Network of Entrepreneurial Women, South-South, Nigeria.

Past National President, Ladies Golf Union of Nigeria and many more.

She has also been described because of her several endeavours as A Royal Mother, an Advocate, Humanitarian, Educationist,dogged supporter of Living Visions and Recipient of local and global awards.

---

Dr Daniel Kolawole Olukoya, the General Overseer of Mountain of Fire and Miracles *Ministries and Chancellor of Mountain Top University has been appointed as Professor of Biotechnology by one of Nigeria's top Universities*. 

*This is the result of the positive consideration by relevant review Committees and Council of the University following the assessments of his publications by some of the world’s best scholars in Biotechnology, each of whom found him to be eminently appointable as Professor of Biotechnology.*

It needs to be underscored that this appointment is indeed well-deserved by Prof. D. K. Olukoya, who is an epitome of all-round excellence.

He bagged a first-class honours degree in Microbiology from the University of Lagos in 1980. He obtained his doctoral degree (Ph.D) at a record time in Molecular Genetics, from the prestigious University of Reading in the United Kingdom, in 1984. Thereafter, he taught *Genetics at the* University of Lagos and was an external examiner to a number of Universities in and outside Nigeria. He also engaged himself as a distinguished researcher and exceptional Geneticist at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research between 1984 and 1998, during which he produced more than 70 scientific publications in the best local and international journals in the area of Microbiology and Biotechnology. He has also been cited more than a thousand times by scholars across the world. 

Not only has the new Professor of Biotechnology cut a niche for himself among eminent scholars in Microbiology and Biotechnology across the world, he had  equally supervised  many postgraduate students and continues to serve as a mentor and motivator to many Nigerian Microbiologists and Biotechnologists, many of whom have risen to professorial  cadres in  Universities in and outside Nigeria. 
  

The impact and interests of the new Professor of Biotechnology, have  not been  limited to his activities as a  committed Scientist and exemplary researcher, but it has been generously extended to his heavy investment in the running of a private biotechnology laboratory for over many years.

The Baale of Mamu land,Oke Mosan, Abeokuta in Ogun State, Chief Fredrick Ayotokunbo Fadipe has called on the residents of Ojodu-Alagbole-Akute to throw their  weight behind the candidacy of Governor Dapo Abiodun by casting their votes for him because of his transformation agenda which they've witnessed through the reconstruction of roads that put an end to their challenges.


According to Chief Fadipe who is also a veteran Journalist," It will be observed that presently the Dapo Abiodun's administration is Laying asphalt on Ojodu-Alagbole-Akute end of the Sango Ota-Ijoko-Agbado-Akute-Alagbole-Ojodu Road is still ongoing.


"The Governor also made us to understand that the first phase will see to the reconstruction of one side of the road down to Sango Ota before they kick off with the second phase so as to ensure ease of movement for road users while the job is ongoing by the contractors handling the project."


"The mantras of our Amiable Governor is Building Our Future Together, we therefore need to join hands together and make the gateway state a pioneer for others to emulate by supporting continuity and good governance of Governor Dapo Abiodun" he concluded

Liberation

* Understanding the Concept of Favour brings undiluted Breakthroughs......okafor

Favour locates anyone when the supernatural hand of elohim is upon that person, therefore favour is a defining elements that terminate insults or Labour

Speaking at the Sunday Divine intervention and Breakthrough service of Grace Nation international aka Liberation city on Sunday 20th November 2022, A clergy and Senior Pastor Grace Nation Dr Chris Okafor focus his Teaching on the Series "Limitations and Curses" re emphasised that favour is a Catalyst that divinely stop limitation and overturned/breaks curses

The Popular lagos Televangelist, teaching from the International Headquarters of the church in Ojodu Berger lagos Nigeria stated further that when one understand the concept of favour, breakthrough become so easy,

He said when you serve your lord and saviour with clean heart by ways of supporting and promoting the work of God with your substance, God will inturn anoint you with the oil of Favour that will distinguished you from any other person around you, therefore favour become available to you.

Dr okafor said to break out of limitation and Generational curses, favour is one of the major channel to be deployed by Elohim to break you out of curses and Limitation in Life

Anytime you see people fighting against you and when people around you are not getting favour, there is a curse upon them, you need God favour to terminate curses and labouring in vain, God's Favour is a serious matter when you understand the Principles Dr Chris Okafor remarked

The Mighty Hand of God came down in a strange way at the Breakthrough service, God uses his servant Dr Chris Okafor in a new dimension to demystify misery behind peoples predicament, The Generational prophet of God visited ancient altars where lawful captive were kept and set them free, also inherited battles were broken and people released all to the glory of God

Many faithful re-dedicated their life to Jesus Christ as over 1000 faithfuls across the world gave there life to Christ for the first time, this testimony came through Liberation TV, while God blesses expectant mother's with miracle babies at the service

Meanwhile the 19 anniversary ans thanksgiving of Grace Nation will commence in first week of December with a 5 Days Prophetic Conference at the international Headquarters of Grace Nation in Ojodu Berger Lagos Nigeria.

The Royal Head of Mamu land, Oke Mosan, Abeokuta,Ogun State under Ijemo Council of Baales, Chief Fredrick Fadipe FIIP has rejoiced with Chief Mustapha Abdulakeem Owolabi popularly known as MAO on his installation as the Akinfiwatolu of Egbaland bestowed on him by the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo.

Chief Frederick Ayotokunbo Fadipe described chief Mustapha as an exemplary leader and proud son of Egbaland.

He added that the conferment of his title is a testimony to the good works he has done so far and his great contribution to betterment of Ijemo and Egbaland in general.

The Traditional ruler said ''I join the Ijemo chiefs, the indigenous people and Ogun State to felicitate with CHIEF MUSTAPHA ABDUL-HAKEEM OWOLABI (MAO) the Asiwaju of Ijemoland.

Yesterday, the office of AKINFIWATOLU OF EGBALAND was bestowed on him by the ALAKE OF EGBALAND. He is a man of exemplary character, community leader and proud Ẹ̀gbá son.

''This is another feather added to your colourful cap and I know this is just the beginning of good things to come for you and your family.

"Congratulations! We're so very proud of you; my best wishes are always with you and your family.”


“Congratulations Akinfiwatolu of Egbaland bestowed on him by the Alake of Egbaland"

...Diabolic Lifestyle of Phillip Anochie Affected Family Breakup

+He is a very irresponsible Father as kingsman/Elders Opens Up

One Phillips Anochie Mbaise man who is masquerading round to tell people around him how his family abruptly left him but failed to narrated how his laziness and irresponsible as a father contributed and caused the brakeup hazard.

Genuine Investigation revealed by this platform to ascertain the true picture of his allegations, that someone name (withheld) rented house for his wife and at the same time not granted access to his children seems to be a pathological liar from the pit of hell.

Sources who's a close allies to this diabolical man who Parade himself as a pastor affirmed that Phillips Anochie has never proven for once to be a responsible father, He has abandoned his children for so many years only for his wife to be responsible for their upkeeps and education

Umuelem Enyiogugu Mbaise community man who will not want his name to be mentioned on the news media said, Phillips Anochie is a pure traditionalist rather than to be a genuine man of God he used to claimed, He is a fake Pastor, his wife Vivian, abruptly ran for her dear life because she discovered Phillips Anochie had skeleton inside his wardrobes, narrating further, said they resided in Lagos before relocated down to Delta State in which it was unknowingly to them that Phillips had another wife in Delta, we taught he is a man of God, immediately he noticed and discovered his secret as an occultic man has been indirectly unfolded he relocated and abandoned myself and children in Lagos.

As God will perform his wonders, few years back a friend directed me to a church in Lagos where more of my Husband occultic life was exposed, the man of God prayed for us, delivered us and help my children to secure a shelter at least to be comfortably okay on our own.

So what's an evil man called Phillips think he was doing? please help me to beg my father in the Lord over this Embarrassment on his person, Vivian Anochie reacted.

Further investigation says Phillips Anochie has been going to every where to malign the God's sent and a good Samaritan popular man of God who assisted Phillip's family to recently secured accomodation due to his wayward lifestyle
According to his Village men, it was also revealed by another source who hinted this respected platform that Phillips Anochie want to make money at all cost and diabolical means that is why he took to occultic Lifestyle, he is a fake pastor, very irresponsible father, in our community a man who failed severally to take good care of his family is called nothing but an egoat.

Imagine, how God sent an helper of destiny to his home, instead to thank God and the helper he's ranting all over and trying to spoil the name of the man of God. What a shameful man.

Phillips Anochie will never know peace in his life for insulting a man of God who helped you and your family.

Watch out for the Part two of this investigative report on this randy fake pastor Phillip Anochie will come as a boom in our next Bulletin edition.

Source: www.sociertyherald.com.ng
(Sponsored)

The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, on Tuesday, hosted the World, Commonwealth and African 100 metres hurdles, Oluwatobi Amusan and named her as the Ogun State Sport Ambassador.

A statement issued in Abeokuta by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Kunle Somorin, on Tuesday said Gov. Abiodun equally announced a cash reward of N5m Naira and also gifted the queen of the tracks a house in Ijebu-Ode.

The governor had on the 26th day of April, 2021 adopted the star athlete, whose exploits were made known to the governor by the Minister of Youths and Sports, Sunday Dare.

Speaking further at the event held at his Oke Mosan Office, Governor Abiodun described Tobi Amusan as a role model to the girl-child and a practical example of a truism that what a man can do, a woman can even do better.

"So, you will be our Sports Ambassador; I am happy that you said you are not from any other state. You are from Ogun and not from Lagos and you want to come back home. We also want to ensure that you come back home.

"We want to assure you that as you come back home, you have a home here in the state. So, in view of that, we are also going to be presenting to you a home in Ijebu-Ode.

"On top of that, we will be giving you a small token, we will be donating to you a sum of five million naira," he said.

Gov. Abiodun who noted that his administration is on cause to give the Ijebu-Ode Stadium the necessary facelift it needs, said that the call by the star athlete to use the stadium to train whenever she is in the country would further prompt his administration to fast track the rehabilitation of the stadium.

"We are in the process of rehabilitating a few of our sport facilities, I have spoken to the Minister of Sports and a few other people, but, now that we have one of our own who is saying that I want to train in that stadium, that puts us under a lot of pressure to ensure we prioritize Ijebu-Ode stadium because we want you to come and be training in that stadium," the governor added.

While noting that his administration considers the role of women very important in all spheres of human endeavor, he said that the passing of a law to ensure the full emancipation of women in the state, is the beginning of an era where women get more responsibility.

The governor who noted that youths in the country can combine both sports and education without any disturbance, called on youths in the country to borrow a clue from the world champion who combined both and is doing well for herself.

Abiodun further described athletics as an avenue where discipline, leadership skills and inter-personal relationships can be learnt, adding that "Tobi has been able to succeed through a lot of discipline, hard work, persistence and a lot of faith in her ability".

The governor stressed that his administration views the Sport Ambassador and world champion as a point of contact for other youths in the country who have lost faith in what hardwork, persistence, faith and diligence can achieve.

He noted that the story of the World, Commonwealth and African Champion would further educate those who still look at the combination of sports and education as a waste of time.

In her remarks, Tobi Amusan, while acknowledging the support of Governor Abiodun towards her success, called on the Federal Government to do more for athletes.

"All thanks to my governor for supporting me and I feel like the Federal Government can do the same when it comes to supporting athletes financially," she said.

Her coach, Abiola Onakoya also noted that the world champion is already giving back to the society through an athletics development programme named Tobi Abiola Athletics Development in Ogun State.

The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun had on the 26th day of April, 2021 adopted the star athlete, whose exploits were made known to the Governor by the Minister of Youths and Sports; Hon. Sunday Dare.

Edozie Ezebinugwu 

To further communicate the high impact of its brand identity and purpose, Association of Digital Media Core Advocates ADMCA, has unveiled a new logo for its annual Media Excellence Awards 2022.

According to the media group, the new logo is uniquely designed to give a visual representation and leave an unforgettable impression on the awardees and industry stakeholders for their efforts in accomplishing excellence in the industry.

“The new logo expresses our brand value all in one. It says a lot about the things we do and why we do them. It is also designed to be memorable and impactful.

“It is easily recognizable and easier to pronounce and remember. It is bold and very assertive with bright and mature colours,” the organisers disclosed.

The new Anambra Media Excellence  Awards logo is a combination of text and visual imagery that serves two purposes. The text, which has bold ‘AMEA’ as the acronym of the organisation, tells people the name of the Award and creates a visual symbol that represents the brand’s essence.

Anambra Media/Movie Excellence Awards will hold on 25th September, the Award Night is scheduled for 6pm -11pm prompt, 2022. The venue of the Awards ceremony is Best Western Meloch Hotel, Ifite Awka.

Young Bayelsans who were selected in 2016 for scoring highest in a scholarship exam into junior secondary school held in Twon-Brass Kingdom have emerged best graduating students of their set after six years.

The students, Ifiemi Ayebanengimote Bonnie; Ogbulu Wanaemi Fiberesima; Seigha Abraham Ingonabo; Augustine Preye Paige, Ababo Naomi Ota and Azazi Peter Kingsley, who were admitted in into JSS 1 in Titare Star Royal Academy in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, also dominated the 2022 West Africa Examination Council (WAEC) with Distinctions.

The scholarship exam was organized in 2016 by the Queen of Twon-Brass Kingdom and President of the Queens of the Niger Delta Initiatives, Her Majesty, Dr Josephine Diete-Spiff, Esq JP, for primary school children who were drawn from each house and are desirous for academic excellence but were hindered in one way or the other to participate irrespective of their status.

This was part of the successes recorded over the years by her foundation's consistent and tireless drive to tackle the issues of poverty, cultism and gender based violence by educating and empowering the boy/girl child through enhanced opportunities for developing talented students.

Addressing the young stars during their graduation ceremony, Queen Josephine enjoined the students to be good ambassadors in their various endeavour, while expressing optimism that their achievements will spur them to greater heights that will enable them to contribute to the growth and success of Twon Brass Kingdom.

She said, "This year is unique to us and my kingdom as among the graduands here today are five children of Twon Brass Kingdom, from each house, taken six years ago, and trained with full educational scholarship, inclusive of free transport, boarding, and medicals by my humble self, their Queen.

"I am glad to state that I fulfilled that promise, as they came here as teens and are leaving here as grown teenagers more enlightened, brave, courageous, and confident of themselves. I will miss you all and hope your achievements here will spur you to great heights that will enable you to contribute to the growth and success of Twon Brass Kingdom.

Speaking in an interview, the overall best student, Ifiemi Ayebanengimote Bonnie, now 17years old, said the opportunity was indeed a gift from God because it was through her sister who could not pass the exam that she got to know about the scholarship program.

Recounting her experience, Ifiemi said, "I was sleeping in the house that morning when my sister came back and asked my father to buy her math set. My father asked her what she wanted to use it for and she said there was a scholarship exam going on and she wanted to go and write the exam. My father then told her to wake me up to go with her including my brother.

"We went and bought the math set. So that was how I wrote the examination. The result came out the next day, I qualified but my sister and my brother didn’t qualify. We were about five candidates that qualified in the whole of Brass kingdom.

"Am happy and they were not angry that I was selected out of three of us. My experience has been good. Things have been going on well for me. I have been studying well and I was lacking nothing because Her Majesty has been providing virtually everything that I needed."

Ifiemi who is passionate about studying Mass Communication in the university also disclosed that she was able to come top among the rest of the students because she laid down some goals and prayed to God to help her achieve them.

"I was working hard, I always be in the line and I always attend classes, do my homework; that’s how I was able to do that. I to want advice other Bayelsa students to keep pushing, they should be focused, they should keep striving and they should pray to God for them to locate their destiny helper", elated Ifiemi stated.

Also, Azazi Peter Kingsley from Ekeremor Local Government Area in Bayelsa State who was discovered in 2016 for his unique talent in constructing buildings with local materials like cardboard paper, gum and paint, said he never dreamed of gaining scholarship in his life until destiny brought him to Queen Josephine Diete-Spiff.

He said, "On a faithful day that was on a Saturday, I never knew I will get a scholarship that day. I made a project for a man who told me to bring it to a hotel. I took it there not knowing that Her Majesty was hosting an enlightenment program in the same hotel. When I got there, the hotel was full with crowd, so I stood at the gate.

"Some journalists met me because I constructed a bungalow building and they saw it and they said I have a talent. They took me to Her Majesty. She asked me some questions and finally she gave me the scholarship to her school. I am very grateful for what she has done for me. The school has imparted so much in me. I have gained more experience in my building construction and they have uprightly brought me up. My moral life has changed since then."

For Ogbulu Wanaemi Fiberesima who has wanted to leave the shores of Twon-Brass to a more promising environment where he will compete with bigger brains, the opportunity was indeed an answer to his prayers.

According to him, it was a family friend who rushed down to his house on the examination day while he was doing normal house chores to inform him about the scholarship exam, adding that he never knew or heard about it but was prepared and confident he will make it if he is given the opportunity.

"When the opportunity came, I was more ready because I was preparing for another school entrance exam to write. I put all mind into it, I kept every other thing aside; I was persistent concerning the whole exam. I was very happy when I was told I passed the exam because when I saw the number of students from the community that turned up for the exam, it gave me a little problem because I wasn’t expecting such number of persons since I wasn’t aware.

"So, when they told me about the result, I was very happy at least out of all the kids in the community, I was chosen. It was more of an opportunity and a privilege. Before I came to the school, I wasn’t more of a bold child, I wasn’t that outspoken though I was good, brilliant and smart but I wasn’t that social type.

"But when I came, I realised it was a different environment where they gave me this opportunity to be very sound and speak among crowd and there will be no atom of fear in me. They gave me this inner confidence that I can do whatever I want to do; it’s just within your mind. Today at least I am where I am, I can speak wherever I am asked to speak because it has given me that boldness. It just increased my personality and I am very grateful to God and very grateful to Her Majesty for have given me this opportunity."

Mrs Ogbulu Favour Fiberesima, the mother of Wanaemi, while expressing appreciation to God and the Queen on behalf of the parents said the whole process was a big relief for her and other parents, adding that “for good 6 years, Her Majesty came to Brass and took these children under scholarship, we did not spend a dime.

She said, “From their uniform down to text, exercise book to their feeding, accommodation, medicals and to the surprising aspect is that at the end of every term, she will still give them transport fee to go back to their destination for these six good years. This woman has not complained for anything. And not that these children are not misbehaving in one way or the other but she accommodated them and did everything to see that those children graduate as great minds and be useful to their families and the community.

“In fact, we don’t have silver and gold to appreciate her neither can we even pay back for what she did but one thing I know is that God Almighty will fill her pocket wherever place she must have taken these money to take care of these children. God in his infinite mercy will take care of her and her children in time when she too doesn’t expect because we didn’t expect it; we never bargained for it until we came that very day. We went there, took the exam and she never discriminated against the poor from the rich. They all wrote the exam, she just picked them from each of the various Ama/compound without knowing any of the children. And behold here they are; they have finished their secondary school, and made us proud”

Nono Nwunye Soludo is doing well. The Governor's wife is quite creative, deep and sound, intellectually.

Nono, recently had a Parley with wives of the traditional rulers in Anambra state, female heads of Christian associations, others where sundry issues were discussed, with emphasis on healthy living.

Nono, got me when she charged the women to ensure that Igbo language does not go extinct, urging them to always speak Igbo to their children.

Nono Nwunye Soludo Is quite outstanding, poised, calm and calculated. I think, our Firstlady came prepared.

Ekenem

Comr Harris Chuma-Odil, PhD
Ogene Ogbunike

[url][/url]
Queen of Twon Brass Kingdom and President of the Queens of the Niger Delta Initiative, Her Majesty, Dr Josephine Alfred Diete-Spiff, Esq JP called on the Ijaws in Diaspora on the need for an effective and efficient collaboration to meet the yearning and aspirations of Ijaw women in order for them to be empowered to achieve their fullest abilities and potential in every sphere of their life.

The Royal Queen made the call during her paper presentation on the occasion of the Ijaw Diaspora Convention held recently in New Jersey, United States of America.

Speaking on the theme: “Effective Collaboration with the Ijaw Diaspora: Hope for the Ijaw Women”, Queen Josephine noted that the Ijaw woman is majestic, full of strength, beautiful, hardworking, long-suffering, compassionate and caring for her children and loved ones.

She said that the description which depicted a typical Ijaw woman as with a pan on her head, a baby wrapped on her back and her work implements in her hands, ready to provide for the family under the hot African sun and Niger Delta rain, unperturbed by the harsh experiences of life shows she is tenacious and hardworking.

She said, “Unfortunately, today, the evil of industrialization in the name of oil and gas extraction and the attendant land grab/pollution have put a lot of our women out of the traditional livelihood occupation of fishing and farming which gave them prosperity in the past thus pushing them into poverty and loss of control of the children-a basis for the numerous vices among our youths today.


According to her, Ijaw women are mostly breadwinners and the nurturers of their families, adding that their livelihood was greatly impeded by the challenging environment of the Niger Delta, which though rich in oil and income generating opportunities, same are out of the reach of the Ijaw woman.

The wife of the former Rivers State Military Governor further emphasized that Ijaw women are agents of social change, if given the opportunity, adding that a collaboration with the Ijaw Diaspora will be a welcome development in changing the narrative of Ijaw Women in the livelihood scheme of survival.

“The Ijaw woman's means of survival are also threatened by a growing trend of farm produce theft and flooding. Added to her woes are kidnapping, herder invasion, and early widowhood, leading to loss of socio-economic subsistence. She also suffers from the attendant factors of poverty increased by lack of education, susceptibility to violence, cultism, health challenges, underage motherhood, in addition to some harmful traditional practices. The list is endless.”

Proposing avenues which require effective partnership, Queen Josephine called on the Ijaw Diaspora to collaborate with Ijaw women in homeland in areas of Interventions in Violence and Ill-Treatment Against Ijaw Women, Ijaw Women/Girl Child Education, Ijaw Women Empowerment, Encouraging Ijaw Women to Participate in Politics and take up Leadership Positions.

“It's undeniable that the Ijaw Diaspora has assets for collaboration due to their international exposure, international contacts, financial resources, human and mental resources that override the economic capabilities of their counterparts in the homeland. Therefore, they can offer training, assist in primary healthcare, provide resources and partner with the Ijaw women in their homeland.

“Collaboration with the Ijaw diaspora will be impossible without a formidable platform for operational collaboration and communication. One, therefore, recommends the creation of a most needed platform for efficient synergy between Ijaw diaspora and Ijaw women at home.

“So that the local Ijaw women can be empowered to achieve their fullest abilities and potential in every sphere of their life. For every Ijaw woman to fulfil the requirements of her heart and be free from any form of oppression, she needs to be liberated and confident in herself. Her desired accomplishment in life is a sine qua non for the benefit of the Ijaw ethnic nationality”, she stressed.

Public office holders should know that they are accountable to the people.

All political appointees serving under Prof Soludo led Administration, should becareful not to mess up the system that we are patiently waiting for productive leadership and good governance. Advisedly, the Soludo's administration had started on good note, and the momentum should be sustained.

If you're not ready to serve ndi Anambra diligently, with every sense of humility, kindly throw in the towel, and get out of the scene. We cannot afford a repeat of the recent ugly past.

If you think it's business as usual, we will drag you up and down in this spartial space without recourse to your position or title. We will not allow arrogant public officials, insolently proud individuals to Lord over us, never, not again.

Ekenem

Comrade Chuma-Odili Harris Udoka(PhD)
I'm Ogene Igbo

As Watchdogs,
We are not asleep!