Breaking: Celebration Galore As NAOCS Honours Amb. Francis Boumiebi JP, Describe Him As An Educational Peace Ambassador - Creeks News

By Keneware Emmanuel

   The National Association of Ogulagha Clan Students NAOCS, today 31st of July, 2020 bhonours and presented an award of educational support and leadership excellence to Amb. Francis Boumiebi (JP), the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to Governor Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa of Delta State on Political Matters in his country home at Ogulagha community in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State.

  The occasion witness a convivial atmosphere rocked with laughter, peace, serenity and tranquility. As the spokesperson for NAOCS Comr. Pere Odubo thank Amb. Francis Boumiebi JP for the rousing welcome and huge entertainment.

 While speaking on behalf of NAOCS, Comr. Odubo said the kingdom students deem it fit to come and honour a quintessential leader, iconic figure who have contributed immensely and profusely to both educational, human capital development and otherwise.

   Also speaking in the events is the President of   the association Comr. Clever Igere who said he has being hearing the good works of Amb. Francis Boumiebi from afar on how he has continuously and ceaselessly promote education from the primary to the tertiary level in the entire kingdom and Niger Delta at large. 

 Speaker after speaker ranging from the Vice President, Public Relation Officer, Treasurer and others thank and commend the giant strides of Amb. Francis Boumiebi saying some has the financial capacity but refuse to sponsor or support education but he has taken it upon himself from time immemorial. It is highly appreciated and lauded.

 Also speaking is Comr. Bright B.A Guwor, Community Trust Secretary Ogulagha GMOU and President of Ogulagha Youth Initiative, recounted the leadership giant strides of the Senior Special Assistant, during the first NAOCS convention and several others. He shifted from the educational aspects to the political, where he describe him as a political bulldozer that many look upon and has encouraged people like him who has no backbone to go to school. He urge him not to allow the circumstances of the community to limit him in his good works and philanthropic deeds but  rather to do more to the glory of God and humanity. He concluded by saying even the name of Amb. Francis Boumiebi gives immunity and open doors on occasions and offices.

   In a brief addition, Egnr. Timi Temewei, member of the Delta State Waterways and Land Security Committee also lauded and lampoon the good works of the Ambassador describing him as a political mobilizer full of energy and capacity.

  In reaction on his part, the Senior Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Political Matters, Amb. Francis Boumiebi firstly thank God and the Students body for coming to honour him as a person.

 He recounts his leadership and political activities as far back as 1994 being engrossed in grassroot/community politics. 

 He said from that time till date, he has supported and contributed to the promotion of education. 

We might have not done enough because of our level of education and understanding. Our father's as on their part has done well in holding the length and breath of the kingdom, because of the blessings of God in the kingdom. It becomes very envious.

  He gave a brief history of how NAOCS kick stated and his founding fathers such as Chief Clement Kpuke, Pst. Idowu Seimode and others who has also honoured him in their time. Positing that he has received NAOCS award four (4) times. 

 He said for some years now, as a result of life challenges, he has not being too close to the association yet because of his past antecedents, the revered students body still deem it fit to honour him. He is very grateful.

 He use the medium to speak to all the undergraduates and graduates to take the burden of their parents after school. He said graduates that has being helped to secure employment in oil companies and other sectors should fall back to develop their various communities in the kingdom. 

 He harped on the just concluded Press Conference held in the kingdom and frown against the absence of the Ogulagha kingdom students body who are also critical stakeholders and arm of the kingdom. He preached on peace and unity in the kingdom, saying we must be united in order to help one another and bring the needed progress and development in the kingdom.

 Finally, he encouraged the students body to try as much as possible to unite leaders if there's any perceived fracas or disunity, and not to take side with one person against the other. Raining insults on social media or other media platform. It is with unity that we can achieve enviable progress. He added.

 Climax of the events is the presentation of the award and group photo graph.

 Present at the events from the NAOCS body is Comr. Igere Clever (President), Comr. Precious Odubo (Vice President), Gege Denyefa (Publicity Secretary), Comr. Benidiwei Peremobowei (PRO), Okeboh Meyebi (NDU Chapter President), Sarah James, Godspower Potoki, Tuna Tare-ebi and Comr. Gawei Stephanie.

 While on the part of the Senior Special Assistant include Chief John Diegbegha (Benikariwei of Ogulagha kingdom), Hon. Chief. MacDonald F. Anoruse (Ibetariwei of Ogulagha kingdom), Comr. Mighty Ibori (Private Secretary to Hon. Asupa Forteta), Members of Delta State Waterways and Land Security Committee, Friends, well wishers and loved ones across the length and breath of the kingdom.

Credible Majority People's Forum Pay Courtesy Visit To Amb. Francis Boumiebi, Seek Political Advice And Support - Creeks News

By Keneware Emmanuel

  A socio political group operating under the aegis of Credible Majority Peoples Forum CMPF, today pay courtesy visit to the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Delta State, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa on Political Matters, Amb. Francis Boumiebi (JP) in his Country home at Ogulagha Community in Ogulagha Kingdom, Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State.

 The group which has a membership strength of over two hundred and fifty (250) persons, spoke via his Chairman Mr. Matthew Ekpokeme, who heartily thank the SSA for accepting, receiving and giving them a blissful welcome.

   He said the Credible Majority People's Forum is a political platform aimed at making a change, identifying with political leaders and stakeholders and bringing the dividends of democracy to the grassroot. And that they've come to pay their  allegiance and work with him.

         Presentation of the Group's T-shirt

 On his part, while responding, Amb. Francis Boumiebi JP, pull out barrels of gratitude to members of the group for deeming it fit to  recognized and identifying with him as their political leader.

 He however advice them that politics is a game of majority and interest. It is a game where there's no permanent enemies but interest. A game of intrigues, lies where people try to bring down the reputation of others just to gain relevance. 

 He advice the group to be trustworthy in their dealings and state their vision clear in order to earn trust from him and the general public.

Amb. Francis Boumiebi Addressing the Members of CMPF

 He also harped on the various political divides ranging from the Federal, State, Local, Ward and Unit levels, saying that everyone is entitled to one vote. 

 He advice the group to necktie their political ship in one direction in order to advance and gain the needed support.

 High point of the event is the presentation of the group's customized T-Shirt and group photograph.

  Mr. Ekpokeme Matthew, Chairman CMPF

SSA To Gov. Okowa Cautioned Oil Companies In Forcados Terminal Over Maltreatment Of Indigenous Workers, Urges Prompt Payment Of Their Outstanding Salaries - Creeks News

By Keneware Emmanuel

The Senior Special Assistant, SSA to the Governor of Delta state Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa on Political matters, Amb. Francis Boumiebi (JP) has cautioned oil companies operating in Forcados Terminal, Ogulagha and their contracting firms over the maltreatment and refusal to pay indigenous workers salaries. 

He made this call via a press statement he signed in his country home at Ogulagha and a copy of which was sent to Creeks News Media.

 The SSA ordered the Shell Petroleum Development Company SPDC, and other contracting companies to stop maltreating host community workers and indigenous contractors. He said, companies such as Hopic Nigeria limited, Baywood intercontinental limited, Wassan Nig Limited  and other companies had shut their door against indigenous contractors and workers most especially in this covid-19 pandemic. Workers are been denied of their salaries since  the month of April till date. While external workers are working freely and are been paid.  This is the height of marginalization, ingratitude, nepotism and servitude in the world. He said.

 I call on SPDC to kindly advice their contracting firms to do the needful before it will get out of control thereby disrupting the serenity and peace building process put in place by His Excellency, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, the Executive Governor of Delta State.

 

Amb. Francis Boumiebi, SSA On Political Matters

    The Shell Petroleum Development Company should on their part, put in place Covid-19  preventive measures inline with NCDC rules to enable and allow host community workers, contractors and community leaders to go about their normal businesses vis a vis a convivial relationship with the companies operating in the Forcados Terminal and his environs. 

  He however, ordered the prompt payment of all outstanding salaries and other entitlements during the Covid-19 period from April till date with immediate effect.

 It will amount to daylight robbery and high level of slavery if host community, indigenous workers are deprived of their rights and external workers are called upon to resume their normal duties. He added.

 Meanwhile, Creeks News  Media learnt that Amb. Francis Boumiebi is a prominent stakeholder of Ogulagha Kingdom who has held various leadership office and a former Senior Special Assistant, SSA to the Delta State Goverment on Community Development.

Ogulagha Kingdom Boils, Decries Neglect, Writes President Buhari, Makes Developmental Demands.

By Keneware Emmanuel

 Ogulagha Kingdom in Burutu Local Government Areas of Delta State yesterday through a Press Conference decries the absolute, total and abject neglect of the Federal Government and the multinational oil companies operating in the kingdom.

   

  The kingdom frown against the total neglect and marginalization despite being the golden hen that lays the golden eggs, yet nothing meaningful is visibly seen in the kingdom.

    Ogulagha Kingdom Chiefs and Leaders

    The Statement reads in parts;

 *The ancient OGULAGHA KINGDOM is comprises of over 30 major communities and several satellite villages under the leadership of a Traditional Ruler, His Royal Majesty, Elder Capt, Joseph Timiyan (JP).......*

*It is of common knowledge to Nigerians and foreigners alike that OGULAGHA KINGDOM is one of the highest producers of crude oil and gas and the 'BLACK GOLD' is found in all nooks and corners of the Kingdom*..

  *There are in fact several National and Multinational Oil and Gas Companies that carry out crude oil exploration, exploitation and production activities in the kingdom and prominent amongst these are; The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited; Nigeria Agip Oil Company, Chevron Nigeria Limited, Britannia 'U' Oil Limited, Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCO) and OANDO PLC.*

*The Kingdom hereby request for the following developmental project to be executed which are not limited to the followings; Shore production at Ogulagha, Obuguru, Osain and Abarabebe communities which lands are being washed away by high and heavy ocean waves, the sitting of a Federal University, Polytechnic and a Federal Medical Center/Hospital in Ogulagha Kingdom; construction of road and drainages in all the communities, dredging and canalization of access creeks in the Ogulagha community, Dredging and reclamation of Stuart creeks in the communities and a bridge connecting the kingdom to warri Urban Settlement......*

The statement reads.

 Amongsts other demands, The Kingdom  request that her indigenes should be considered for appointment as chairmen and board members of Federal Agencies such as the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), the Presidential Amnesty Office, the Federal Executive Council etc.

 They also harped on the quick execution of the Export Processing Zone/ Gas Revolution Industrial Park as the project is designed to cover 27,000 hectares of land, part of which is the land of Ogulagha Kingdom. They opined that the name of the park should be called the Niger Delta Gas Revolution Industrial Park or any other appropriate name that will reflect all the host kingdoms, and not to a particular community as it is being called the Ogidigben Gas Revolution Industrial Park. They request that the leadership of the Kingdom should be consulted, liaised with and be part and parcel of all negotiations towards the actualization of the project. They called on the president to re-energize the process towards making the project a reality as it has the prospect of opening up the Riverine Communities in terms of provision of massive employment.

 On Marginal Fields Bidding Process, the kingdom queries the process of bidding for ownership and operation of marginal field exercise of 2020. They lament that, the process does not give preference to indigenous investors who are natives of oil and gas producing communities/kingdoms. 

They however, requested that indigenous investors from Ogulagha Kingdom should be given the right of first Refusal in the bidding process. The indigenous investors should have the right to run and operate the marginal fields in their Kingdom and it is only when there are no qualified investors from the kingdom that the bidding should be made open.

 The Press Conference which was held at OBOTOBO 1 community in Ogulagha Kingdom witness a massive gathering of chiefs, Community leaders, Youth Leaders, the kingdom women leadership and host of numerous sons and daughters across the length and breath of the Kingdom.

  Speaking on behalf of the Kingdom, Chief Larry Adenike issued the press statement which was co-signed by twelve (12) other notable chiefs and leaders in the Kingdom.

 They urge the Federal government to swiftly and promptly respond to their demands in the shortest possible time.

Others who co-signed the Press Statement includes

Chief Igere Williams

Bolouwei of Ogulagha Kingdom

Chief Emmanuel Potoki (JP)

Koretiemowei of Ogulagha Kingdom

Chief (Hon) MacDonald F. Anoruse

Ebetarewei of Ogulagha Kingdom

Chief Pitylove Abanre

The Igo of Ogulagha Kingdom

Chief Emaye M. Benidiwei

Amatukpa of Ogulagha Kingdom

Amb. Francis O. Boumiebi (JP)

Ogulagha Kingdom

Mr. Johnbull Ogobiri

Chairman, representing Ogulagha/Youbebe Zone

Mr. Churchill Dose

Chairman, representing Sokebolou/Yokiri Zone

Mr. Johnson F. Gbenewei

Chairman, representing OBOTOBO 1 & 2 Zone

Hon. Justice T. Akuna

President, Ogulagha Kingdom Youth Council

Mrs. Patience Temewei

Chairlady, Ogulagha Kingdom Women

2 Years After: Ogulagha Community Mourns Late Capt. Solomon.

By Keneware Emmanuel

   Ogulagha Community in Burutu Local Government Area, Delta State mourns Late Capt. Solomon Prebor, an ex chairman who suffered martyrdom, popularly called the Mandela.

  On the 18th of July, 2018 could be regarded as one of the darkest  days in the socio political and leadership history in Ogulagha Community as the Late Capt. Solomon Prebor (the then Chairman) was involved in a ghastly motor accident along Benin - Warri road in response to an EFCC invitation as a result of internal issues bordering on leadership and money politics.

   His death spark serious unrest that made the Community divided into two faction. Hereby leading to mass destruction of properties.  

 In order to resolve the lingering impasse, a unity government was formed bringing both parties together for a serene atmosphere of tranquillity and conviviality.

 Two years later, Ogulagha Community mourns as his legacies speaks in volume and intensity. He is remembered for his drainage project across the length and breath of the Community, and the barge he secured.

  Society don't forget good men, they live forever in their memories since they've succeeded in writing their names in gold and in the sand of time. 

Honestly, Capt. Solomon Prebor has written his name in the annal of history that cannot be forgotten. 

 Capt. Solomon Prebor lives on...

EFCC Arrests Uniport Undergraduate, Mother, Girlfriend For Internet Fraud

By Keneware Emmanuel

Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Benin Zonal Office on Thursday July 16, 2020 arrested a 22-year old Computer Science Undergraduate of the University of Port Harcourt, Kenneth Gift, his girlfriend, Dandy Spice and mother, Dorah Aninah for suspected internet fraud in Agbor, Delta State.

Their arrest was sequel to a petition from the US Federal Bureau of investigation, FBI, and intelligence by operatives of the Commission.

Items recovered from them at the point of arrest include a 5-bedroom duplex, Mercedes-Benz CA250, Mercedes-Benz C250, Mercedes Benz GLK 350, laptop computers and mobile phones.

The suspects have made useful statements and will be charged to court as soon investigations are complete.

*Source* : @officialEFCC

CREEK NEWS: NO NEWS HAS BEEN SO INTERESTING AND GREAT THAN TO HEAR THE FREEDOM OF TOMPOLO ~ YOUBEBE COMMUNITY

It’s a celebration era as the good people of youbebe community in Ogulagha Kingdom, Burutu LGA celebrates Tompolo victory. 

The good people of youbebe community ably led by Apt. (DR) Godspower Tomone (leader), Mr Emmanuel Okeke, (Executive Chairman), Mrs Dora Godspower Tomone (Women Chairlady), Mr Eddy Ziko ( Youth President), members of their various executives and the Entire Youbebe Federated Community hail The Izon Ebidouwei High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo on his Victory at the court rulings. 

The good people of youbebe community are so happy that finally Tompolo a son of youbebe community is in indeed free from witch-hunt by his enemies. 

“Meanwhile, Apt (Dr) Godspower Tomone AKA Godspenal International, who states that “I am grateful to God Almighty and to the Nigerian judicial system. I see this victory as a victory for our collective interest as a nation and for the economic stability in the oil sector. I appeal to Nigerians from all works of life, especially the political class to play our politics with brotherly love for the promotion of our corporate unity he said. 

He also noted that the years of political incarceration of Tompolo has brought more darkness to the Ijaw nation and has had a major draw back to the Ijaw nation’s progress.”

The Executive Chairman of Youbebe Community, Mr Emmanuel Okeke described Tompolo as a leader with many positive colours, stressing that the sacrifices of the living legend towards reconstructing a better Niger Delta region will be something that has to be engraved in the hearts of the people.

Also Proposed Chief Mrs Dora Tomone said Tompolo’s name and his agitations in the Niger-Delta region have brought great infrastructural and human capital development to the region and will never be forgotten in the history of humanity. 

julbilation in Youbebe Community continues following on Wednesday judgement by a Federal high court in  Lagos quashing all 40 count charges slammed on Tompolo and others by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

High Court Judgment: Bright Guwor Congratulates Tompolo, Hails Judiciary, Says It Is Victory For Ijaw Nation

By Keneware Emmanuel

  Renowned youth activist and President of the Ogulagha Youth Initiative Forum, Comr. Bright B.A Guwor has congratulates the ex Niger Delta war lord, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo aka Tompolo. The Odokorikodo 1 of Niger Delta has the Federal High Court in Lagos headed by Justice Ibrahim Buba discharge and acquitted him, Akpoboloukemi and others for a 40 count charge bordering on fraud to the tune of 34 billion naira.

 In a statement he signed and a copy of it, which was sent to Creeks News Media. He described the judgment as victory for the ijaw nation and the judiciary as truly the last hope of the common man.

 Bright Guwor averred that the judgment is a vindicated of Tompolo's innocence and a true Freedom Fighter. 

 Our hero, our legend, we are proud of you. You indeed a blessing to the Niger Delta, Ijaw Nation, Nigeria and the World.

Ojobo Liberation Movement Congratulates Tompolo As Federal High Court Dismisses Suit Against Him.

By Keneware Emmanuel

The leadership and the entire members of  OJOBO Liberation Movement (OLM).  Congratulates Tompolo on the Dismissal of his Alleged Fraud Filed by the Federal Government.

The Odokorikodo of Ijaw Nation_ the awou bo dau of Niger Delta on this news of the century, 

Freedom at last!

Congratulations GOC, Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo the  'TOMPOLO'!

We join your followers worldwide and Ijaw Nation at large to celebrate you on this auspicious day of your victory 15/7/2020. Your sacrifices to Ijaw Nation and Niger Delta can't be over emphasized, you are the hero of our time.

May you continue to live for as many who believes in you and may your days on earth be long.

Thank you for all you have done for your people, posterity will always remember you.

Congratulations to you and the good people of Ijaw Nation at large. AWOUBODOU of our time.

Signed

Comrd Ndoni Timipre 

President OLM

Signed

Comrd Christo Donye

Secretary OLM

Signed

Comrd Doubra Serious Torukro

P.R.O   OLM

Jubilation In Niger Delta As Federal High Court Dismisses Case Against Tompolo, Akpoboloukemi Others.

 By Keneware Emmanuel

 July 15, 2020

 

The Federal High Court in Lagos on Wednesday dismissed the entire 40 counts bordering on alleged N34bn fraud filed by the Federal Government against Global West Vessel Specialist Limited, a company linked to a former Niger Delta militant leader, Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo.

The other defendants in the case were a former Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, Patrick Akpolokemi, Kime Engozu, Rex Elem, Gregory Mbonu and Warredi Enisuoh.

Three other firms – Odimiri Electrical Limited; Boloboere Property and Estate Limited; and Destre Consult Limited – were also defendants in the criminal case filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in 2015.

Tompolo was initially joined as the first defendant in the case, but following his refusal to answer repeated court summonses, Mr Festus Keyamo (SAN), who handled the case for the EFCC, had to apply to the court that Tompolo’s name be removed from the charge sheet.

In a ruling on Wednesday on the defendants’ no-case submission, Justice Ibrahim Buba, pronounced that the prosecution “failed to establish a prima facie case” against the defendants.

He, therefore, dismissed the entire 40 counts filed against the defendants by the EFCC, through Keyamo, and set them free.

In the charges, the EFCC had accused the defendants of conspiring among themselves to divert various sums running into over N34bn, belonging to NIMASA to their personal use.

The EFCC said they acted contrary to Section 18 (a) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) (Amendment) Act, 2012 and were liable to punishment under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.

The first count of the amended 40 counts read, “That you, Government Ekpemupolo (alias Tompolo), Patrick Akpobolokemi and Global West Vessel Specialist Limited in 2012, in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this honourable court, did conspire amongst yourselves to commit an offence, to wit: conversion of the sum of N601, 516.13 and $1,766,428.62, property of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, knowing that the said sums were proceeds of stealing and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18 (a) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) (Amendment) Act, 2012 and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same act.

Editorial: Our Oil, Our Suffering. A View Of The Incessant Pollution/Gas Flaring In Ogulagha Kingdom

CreekNews Editorial

   In spite of the environmental pollution rocking the land and water as a result of crude oil pollution, resulting to dead fishes and other aquatic organism. Gas Flaring, one of the deadliest. Which affect the ecosystem and the ozone layer resulting to respiratory problems by affecting the lungs, ribs  and other organs consequently leading to slow agony of death. Unfortunately, gas flaring is now the order of the day by the SPDC, despite its dangerous, acidic and harmful effects on human.

 Pathetic to state that those enjoying the oil wealth live outside the region. They live on luxurious houses in Abuja, Lagos, etc. 

 Majority of Those living in the areas eat from hand to mouth, with no hope for the future.

 However, few years ago, research carried out by microbial scientists revealed that the Niger Deltans have shorter life expectancy than people outside the region due to the poisoned and polluted terrain they lived in vis a vis the polluted air they inhale daily.

  The oil companies and the Nigerian government are very much aware of this grave danger, but because they value the oil more than the People on whose soil they extract it, nothing is done practically to tackle this avoidable calamity. Thus, the oil wealth is now a trade-off for the People's comfort and progress. The lands is no doubt a contagious marshland for all manners of deadly diseases. 

  Suffice to say that some death happening in our areas is as a result of the accumulated inhaled poisonous substance.

 The Ogulagha Kingdom in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State is a host to various oil and gas flowstation operated by SPDC, Chevron, Agip, Mobil, Brittina U etc.

And they've in one way or the order constantly involve in this  act of environmental/air pollution.

 The discharge of toxic chemical substance to both the land, water and air is now unbearable. Enough is Enough.

 Just today at Sokebolou Community in Ogulagha Kingdom, host to the Yokiri Flowstation with over 30 oil wells witness again the discharge of  poisonous substance (gas flaring) in the environment. 

See Proof below......

    Watch SPDC Gas Flaring in Sokebolou

How long are we going to die because of our God given wealth. 

I hereby call on the Federal government of President Muhammadu Buhari, the Minister of State Petroleum, Chief Timipre Slyva and the Delta State Government of Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa, the Commissioner Oil and Gas, Mr. Emmanuel Agbaduba to cautioned the SPDC, and urge them to compensate the host community with immediate alarcrity. 

  People will not die because of their own wealth. It is unacceptable.

Comr. Keneware Emmanuel Writes From Yokiri.

N28m Claim: The Nation Newspapar Makes U-Turn After Publication, Apologies To Femi Falana

By Creeks News

                      Barr. Femi Falana

 

The Nation newspaper has apologised to Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mr Femi Falana, for publishing a report claiming that he was paid N28m to handle a case by the suspended Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Acting Chairman, Ibrahim Magu.

In a rejoinder on Tuesday, the newspaper said that Falana did not also prosecute any case for the commission as claimed in a story titled: More trouble for Magu as new facts on re-looting of recovered funds emerge, published on its website on Saturday.

 

It said, “We apologise to Mr Falana, who we hold in high esteem, for the story which our Online section unwittingly picked from the News Agency of Nigeria. We hereby retract the story.

“We agree that the report imputed against Falana was false, and on realising that, we took the story down.

 

We regret the damage the story would have caused him and apologise unreservedly to him.”

Falana had through his counsel earlier threatened to suit the newspaper house for the false publication.

        

OLM Writes Bayelsa State Government To Recognise Beinmo-Ojobo Community, Make 4 Stringent Demand

By Keneware Emmanuel

 After a leadership meeting held on the 13th of July, 2020. We the Youths under the aegis of Ojobo Liberation Movement (OLM) do hereby write the Government of Bayelsa State to make Beinmo-Ojobo an autonomous community as it has being neglected for too long.

The movement which is on a mission to foster development to Ojobo community and its sub-communities frowns on the continues neglect of Beinmo-Ojobo under Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa state. 

Speaking in the meeting,  the OLM president, Comr. Timipre Ndoni, thank the OLM members for been present for the meeting. And he stated that:

Beinmo-Ojobo was founded by some notable families from Ojobo community in the year 1977. But due to boundary adjustment,  the entire area and its natural resources were lost to the Bayelsa State Government when it was created in 1996. And it may interest the public to know that, the famous Benesede Flow Station is located in the far end of Beinmo-Ojobo and of which Bayelsa State is the major beneficiary of the Benesede Flow Station. Saying further, he said. The Ojobo Liberation Movement in collaboration with the Beinmo-Ojobo community, should write a letter of recognition (Beinmo-Ojobo community) to Bayelsa State Government, the Bayelsa State House of Assembly and to the Ekeremor Local Government Area. 

                Beinmo-Ojobo Community

And after a strong deliberation, it was concluded that, the leadership of OLM will be putting a letter across to the Bayeslsa state Government, its House of Assembly and also to the Ekeremor Council area and the letter most contain the followings:

1. That Beinmo-Ojobo should be recognized as an autonomous community in Ekeremor Council area of Bayelsa State. 

2. That, staff of office should be giving to the Amananaowie(the Highness) of Beinmo-Ojobo Community. 

3. That, the Amananaowei should be made life and should be fully paid as it is done in other Bayelsa state communities. 

4. That, polling unit should be created in Beinmo-Ojobo since its population is increasing on yearly basis. 

Signed:

Comr. Timipre Ndoni.            

OLM President 

Comr. Donye Christo

Sec. General OLM

Comr. Doubra Serious Torukro 

PRO OLM

JUST IN: Supreme Court Affirm Douye Diri's Election, Dismisses Alaibe's Suit

By Creeks News

Reports reaching the news desk of Creeks News has it that the Supreme Court has dismisses Time Alaibe’s suit challenging PDP primaries that produced Gov Duoye Diri of Bayelsa State.

 The Apex court affirm victory of Gov. Douye Diri saying it is a pre-election matter.

Oshiomhole's Corruption File Found In Magu's House, Faces Arrest

By Creeks News

 July 13, 2020

  

•Sacked APC chair summons legal team, suspends support for Ize-Iyamu

The sacked national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, has summoned his legal team for guidance as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), under the new leadership of Mohammed Umar, swoops in on high profile politicians, including Oshiomhole, whose files were found in the home of Ibrahim Magu, the suspended EFCC chairman, last week.

The security source who spoke with OBSERVERS TIMES on condition of anonymity said the new EFCC boss, Umar, has commenced preliminary investigation into all the cases contained in the files that were recovered from his predecessor’s house after a search.

Recall that the former EFCC boss was said to have been shielding some persons, especially high profile politicians, from justice, with several tactics designed to delay their trial.

Coincidentally, Oshiomhole‘s arrest is coming at a time his friend and candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, is entangled in a N700m money laundering case preferred against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The trial has suffered delays due to Ize-Iyamu’s absence in court, even as the presiding judge, Justice Mohammed Garba, had earlier validated the charges against him.

Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu is the first defendant in the suit No. FHC/BE21C/ 2016 filed by the EFCC, who accused the defendants of conspiring among themselves to commit the offence in March 2015, alleging that they took possession and control of the funds without any contract award.

At the last court session, the judge rejected the oral request for a prolonged adjournment of the case by the Counsel to Ize-Iyamu, who argued that his client will not disobey the order of the court.

Justice Garba stated that the last time somebody was here, he (the judge) made an order for the accused person to appear in court or face arrest.

Since 2016, Bishop Dr., Osadolor Ochei JP, a human rights activist and anti-crusader based in Benin City, has vigorously pursued the corruption case he initiated via a petition to the EFCC, alleging that Oshiomhole violated relevant sections of the constitution when he acquired a sprawling city of mansions in his home town, Iyamho, worth over N10 billion, while in office, amongst other allegations.

Efforts to reach Oshiomhole to comment on the development proved abortive, as he was said to be meeting with his lawyers for guidance.

“Oshiomhole’s associate who wouldn’t want his name mentioned, said “the former APC national chairman is very busy at the moment. He will not talk to journalists now. He has even suspended all political engagements for now, including his support for Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu’s campaigns.”

According to an Edo-based political analyst, Mr Egbon Usoh, “The imminent arrest of Oshiomhole will mark the end of Ize-Iyamu’s ambition to be governor of Edo State.

“Oshiomhole as we all know is the force behind Ize-Iyamu in the ongoing electioneering campaign, though that force has been weakened substantially since his sack as the national chairman of the APC, so Oshiomhole’s arrest should worry the Ize-Iyamu’s camp.”

4.48 Million People Jostle For 400,000 N-Power Job Slot- Humanitarian Minister

By Creeks News

The online portal for the recruitment of the third batch of N-Power enrolees has so far received 4.48 million applications.

The Nation reports that the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development commenced the enrolment process of the third batch of the N-Power beneficiaries on 26th June 2020.

Sixteen days after the portal was opened for application, the ministry said over 4 million applications have been received.

According to the ministry, only 400,000 applicants will be absorbed into the third batch of its N-Power National Social Investment Scheme (NSIP) at the end of the recruitment exercise.

The update on the application exercise was posted by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Sadiya Farouq on her twitter handle; @Sadiya_farouq on Sunday night.

The tweet reads: “My team and I continue to interface with stakeholders to ensure a successful transition for the @npower_ng. It has been 16 days since the portal opened and we have received 4.48 million.

MaguGate: Withdraw Your N28m Claim Or We Meet In Court -- Falana Threatens Nation Newspaper

  

 

CreeksNews Justice

By Creeks News-  July 12, 2020 19 0

Human rights lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana (SAN), has denied receiving N28m from the suspended Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Mr Ibrahim Magu, who is being investigated for corruption allegations by a special presidential panel.

EyewitnessMedia gathered that Falana, in a pre-action letter signed by his lawyer, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika (SAN), demanded a retraction of the claim by a newspaper which published the online story.

The newspaper’s story was based on a report published by the Federal Government-owned News Agency of Nigeria, which claimed to have obtained the final report of a prior presidential panel allegedly indicting Magu for being unable to account for the interest generated from N550bn cash recovered from 2015 to 2020.

According to NAN, the said presidential panel’s report titled, ‘Final Report of the Presidential Investigation Committee on the EFCC Federal Government Recovered Assets and Finances from May 2015 to May 2020’ exposed acts of corruption and money laundering against some EFCC officials, including Magu.

Falana’s lawyer stated in his letter demanding the retraction of the NAN’s story as published by the Lagos-based newspaper within 48 hours, the story was “damning against my client because his entire career as a lawyer has been devoted to fighting human rights abuses and corruption in high and low place”.

Olumide-Fusika stated, “In the circumstance, my immediate instruction is to demand that you acknowledge your wrongdoing, expressly admit that what you imputed against my client was false, and apologise for your unprofessionalism and the damage you have caused to him.

“I do hope that you will, within the next 48 hours, comply with this gentlemanly request by publication on the front page of your newspaper. Failing compliance, my instruction is to issue a Writ in the tort of defamation in other to afford you an opportunity to prove what you imputed against his my client’s character.”

Olumide-Fusika stated in his pre-action letter that the newspaper, by its publication “meant and intended to mean and convey” to its readership that Magu allegedly used a bureau de change operator to pass the sum of N28m to Falana in an alleged money laundering scheme.

Falana’s lawyer described the publication as “damning against my client because his entire career as a lawyer has been devoted to fighting human rights abuses and corruption in high and low place”.

Source: Punch online

 

Ebikeme And The Ogulagha Political Agenda - Creek News

By CreekNews

The essence of having representatives in government at all levels is to advocate for, defend and protect the interest and concerns of the people. These interests  can be in the form of social amenities, good and qualitative education, employment, empowerment, political relevance and many more which are needed to make life more meaningful for the people. 

But this aim will be defeated and expectations of the people unrealizable if those who are saddled with those responsibilities as representatives of the people lack competence, vision, skill and knowledge to carry out this task.

Representatives whose only agenda is salary earning cannot stand and speak for the people. Such representatives be it national house of assembly member, state house member or councillor are found to be dormant and muted in most cases. 

They are  not in the know when primary school teachers are being employed and the ward they represent are in dear need of teachers. When employment and empowerment in the local government takes place their people are not aware because they fail to pass the information across. 

They find it difficult to raise issues affecting their ward. The declining primary education does not bother them because they do not even know why they were elected. 

Such representatives aggravate the already aggravated situation of the people who had been marginalized for years. They blame their failures to drag home dividends of democracy on the dominance of other representatives forgetting that every representatives first priority is his/her constituency. 

Therefore there is need for the Ogulagha man to change tactics.The need for a better representative as councillor cannot be over emphasized, if we are to get what is due us from the local government area that is run by 60% of revenues generated from our soil.

It is on that premise that Comr Ebikeme Abanre is offering an  agenda that is tailored in line with the expectations of the people. 

Ebikeme will utilize 

(1)Effective Communication, 

(2)Quick and Timely Response, 

(3)Strategic Partnership,

 (4)Continuous Consultations and Engagement as a tool to achieve this agenda. 

The purposeful, committed and active Ebikeme Abanre is offering himself to serve his people. Let all of us give him our support to be the next councillor.

Ebikeme Abanre is a strong lobbyist, a skillful negotiator, a bridge builder and a fearless foot soldier. He is a an excellent manager of information who has the vision and passion to serve. We are sure of a better deal in the Burutu house with Ebikeme as councilor ward 19.

 Ebikeme is well prepared and ready for the job. His ability to maximize the office for the common good of the kingdom is never in doubt.

Our voices will be heard loud and clear in the Prof. Pepper Clark’s Chamber through Ebikeme if we send him there. Like an octopus he will spread his tentacles all over the Forcados River to ensure we get what is due us in the local government council. Let us give him our collective slot to be councillor State Ward 19.

We are sure of having a good deal in Ebikeme than a sleeping partner. Ogulagha kingdom should not reinforce failure because of intimidation or political victimization. The result of reinforcing failure will not be positively different from the past 1,464 days. 

This is a clarion call on all  sons and daughters of Agbonu to send in Ebikeme Abanre the peoples choice to execute the Ogulagha agenda. 

Ebikeme has vowed to stand by, defend and protect the Ogulagha agenda. He will speak for the common good of our kingdom, hence let all men and women, leaders and followers support him to be our councillor. 

Thank you God bless Ogulagha kingdom! 

#SupportEbikemeAbanreThePeoplesChoice4CouncillorStateWard19  

By: Disi, Patrick Soji.

BREAKING: Edo State House Of Assembly Speaker Defect From APC To PDP

By CreekNews

 Reports reaching the news desk of Creeks News Media has it that the Speaker of Edo state House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Frank Okiye has made the switch from the All Progressive Congress (APC) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The speaker made this known in a meeting with the APC Executives and Leaders in Esan North Local Government Yesterday.

 By this defection, the speaker has join the Governor of the state, Gov. Godwin Obaseki in the Peoples Democratic party (PDP).

It Is Time To Fix Ijaw Nation --- Mayor Ala Hart Decries

By Keneware Emmanuel

A presidential candidate in the forthcoming Ijaw Youth Council general elections have cried out to the world that this is the time Ijaw Nation needs to be fixed not wallowing in fixations.

Mayor Ala Hart who held a press briefing with newsmen in Warri yesterday immediately after the postponement of the elections to next by the Electoral committee.

He decried the continuous dwindling state of event surrounding the Ijaw people. That despite the economic  wealth of  the people, they  still wallow and dine in abject poverty and a selected cabals in the country and the region still sap the resources of the collective people.

In his words he said "everyone is aware of the happenings to the ijaw people,how marginalized and balkanized we are in our geographical expression called Nigeria.

Therefore we as people can not continue to dwell on these realities but to fix them and change things in a more drastic and proactive dimension".

He further expressed dismay on the continual marginalization by the marginalized few who have found themselves around the corridors of power.

He said,"the federal government have established interventionist agencies which would have bettered the Ijaw man but at the end of it we hear how our own brothers will divert huge sum for private consumption.

It is  saddened to note that the Ijaw man does not have a voice of direction which has affected the Niger Delta region to a great extent.

 However, he express his readiness to fix culpability where culpability ought to be.

 I am a man of few words.  Actions they say speaks louder than voice, my campaigns to all the Zones, Chapters and Clans have exposed lots of things concerning the Ijaw Nation to me, and if elected as the 8th President of Council. Together we are going to fix Ijaw Nation and take it to the enviable height that she deserve. He concluded.

JUST IN: UEFA Champions League Draw Is Out, Check Draws

Creeks News Sport

July 10, 2020 

By CKN

The Champions League is set to resume after the last 16 round was suspended due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

There are four remaining last 16 ties to finalize, which are Manchester City vs Real Madrid, Bayern Munich vs Chelsea, Barcelona vs Napoli, and Juventus vs Lyon. While Paris Saint-Germain, Atletico Madrid, RB Leipzig, and Atalanta have already booked their place in the last eight ties.

Manchester City will take on 
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Juventus or French side Lyon if they make it past Real Madrid. While Lionel Messi’s Barcelona will take on Bayern Munich or Chelsea if the Spanish club see out Napoli in the last-16 tie.

 

For now, the only two confirmed fixtures in the last eight ties are RB Leipzig vs Atletico Madrid and PSG vs Atalanta.

The conclusion of the tournament has been confirmed to take place in Lisbon, Portugal. Round of 16-second legs 7-8 August. Quarter-finals (Lisbon) 12–15 August. Semi-finals (Lisbon) 18–19 August. Final (Lisbon) 23 August

EFCC: Osinbajo Clear Air On N4bn, Refute Receiving Money From Magu

Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, has reacted to reports that former acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ibrahim Magu, gave him N4billion.

Reports had claimed that Osinbajo also allegedly gave instructions to Magu to release some of the recovered loots.

But reacting, a statement issued by Laolu Akande, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Office of the Vice President, on Wednesday, described the report as fake news.

He explained that Osinbajo has never been involved in such shady activities.

He said, “Inundated by wide circulation of Fake News about VP’s purported involvement in some EFCC recovery billions, please rest assured they’re all LIES: calculated to confuse and concocted to smear Prof. Osinbajo’s image.

“The VP hasn’t and will never be involved in any such shady activities.”

BREAKING: Bala Ciroma Appointed As New Acting EFCC Boss

By CKN

       Reports reaching the News desk of Creeks News Media has it that the FCT Commissioner of Police, Bala Ciroma has been appointed to replaced the suspended Ibrahim Magu as the new Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crime Commission.

This is a developing story, details shortly.

Marginal Field Offer: Itsekiri Nation Set To Shut Down Oil Companies Operating In Their Area

CKN

 Wilson Macaulay 

The Movement for the Development of Itsekiri Oil and Gas Producing Communities MDIOGPC  in a peaceful protest held on the 4th of July 2020 at  Ode Ugborodo . Warri South West LGA of Delta State sent an urgent   message of  notice to President Muhammadu  Buhari  of their readiness   to shut down International Oil and Gas Companies operating in Itsekiri land if Mr.   president  refused to  address the issue of outright marginalisation of the 

 Itsekiri Nation in projects execution , employment opportunities and the recently announced  fifty seven marginal fields offer which does not include son and daughters  of  the Itsekiri Nation neither did they gave the right of first refusal to us who are fundamental stakeholders as Oil and Gas Producing Communities

 The Group's protest letter which copied the Minister of Defense, the Chief of Defense Staff, Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Naval Staff, DG, DSS ,Chevron Nigeria limited, SPDC, the Delta State Governor and the LGA Council Chairman was  signed of by Isaac Botosan  Chairman ,Steven Atete  Secretary and  Maurice lrone Publicity Secretary respectively of Itsekiri Oil and Gas Producing Communities MDIODPC.

 Comrade Besidone Samuel Eyengho 

 the Spokesman of the Itsekiri  Oil Producing Communities who red the protest letter during the press conference affirmed and asserted that the demands of the Itsekiri Nation are  as

 follows 

 " We are calling on the Federal Government to immediately halt the current process of bids for the 57 Marginal Fields and come up with new modalities, where competent companies owned by Itsekiri Sons and Daughters, would be given "right of first refusal: on fields in our homeland, before being thrown open to outsiders. 

If competent companies owned by Itsekiri indigenes are not considered by DPR for the 57 Marginal Fields with immediate effect, we will shut-down operations of the Multi-National Oil and Gas Companies (IOCs) operating in our homelands.

The Federal Government should order immediate resumption of work at the Multi-Billion Dollar Gas Revolution Industrial Park Project, GRIP, Ogidigben and Deep Sea Port in Warri South- West Local Government Area, Delta State.

Direct the relevant MDAs/IOCs to embark on large scale shore protection/sand-filling projects in Itsekiri riverine/oil producing communities.

Institute process for the facilitation of the abandoned age-long Omadino - Escravos Road.

Oil machineries for commencement of the Koko/Ogheye Road Project, which has remained a mere campaign tool for successive administrations, despite its strategic importance to the socio-economic development of the Niger Delta and the South-West.   

We eagerly await speedy action on the aforementioned demands above, to avert fresh crisis in the Oil and Gas Industry and the Niger Delta the statement red.

The Group acknowledged the realities of Corona virus pandemic saying :  " we are not oblivious of the damaging socio-economic effects COVID-19 is inflicting on the global economy, particularly our country that has continued to bear the brunt of the volatility of the price of Crude Oil (The Black Gold) at the International Market, despite efforts by OPEC and OPEC + to mitigate the resulting challenge" ..

Comrade Besidone Samuel Eyengho the MDIOGPC Spokesman explained during the press statement that: " as  responsive and law abiding Ethnic Nationality committed to the sustainable peace, growth and development of the Nigerian project, we are equally not unmindful of the teething security challenges the Federal Government is confronting headlong across the country, especially in the North East. We are however constrained to ventilate our frustration and anger, regarding the brazen and worsening marginalization staring at our face on daily basis, by those in charge of managing affairs in the Oil and Gas Sector in this country. By this, we mean the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and its subsidiary.

Birthday: Comr. Keneware Emmanuel, A Renaissance To Journalism -- Yormu Ann

By Yormu Ann

Happy Birthday Celebration to an intelligent, confident and resilient writer; Comr. Keneware Peremobowei Emmanuel A.K.A The Pentiger.

Comr.Keneware your efforts, Zeal , Passion in Writing has extraordinarily contributed towards raising the standard of Journalism, Your ability to relentlessly uphold the canons of journalism in the course of performing your duties can't be over emphasize.

Creek news wishes you more wisdom,Grace to be found when it is time to write and above all your ink of glory will never run dry..

Happy Birthday The PENTIGER

Edo 2020: Africa Richest Man Throw Weight Behind Gov. Obaseki For His Second Term

African most wealthy investor and business mogul, Alhaji Aliko Dangote has described Governor Obaseki of Edo State, as a man of integrity and great foresight, a super technocrat and world class financial expert who cannot be talked down by any crude politician or political cabal in Nigeria.

Dangote told newsmen in Abuja that he shall continue to support his good and reliable friend, Mr. Godwin Obaseki known to have handled stocks and investment portfolios of the Dangote Group, for several years without blemish before becoming the Executive Governor of Edo State, in 2016.

"Godwin Obaseki is my friend and we have known ourselves for so many years. Our relationship is cordial in all ramifications and I trust his sense of judgment and ability to do things correctly without fear or favour.

"He has done well for the Edo people and it is only fair to reelect him for another 4 years of good governance.

"I will lead a team of friends and business associates to Edo State, to support Obaseki to win the September 19 governorship election," Dangote assured.

APC Convention: Giadom, Ebiri, Ogboru, Others Eyes APC National Chair As Party Move Seat Out Of Edo

Jul 5, 2020

There are strong indications that the immediate past factional National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Victor Giadom, former Cross River State Governor, Clement Ebiri and David Lyon, the sacked Bayelsa State Governor-elect would contest for the position of APC National Chairman at the party’s National Convention holding before the end of this year.

Other likely contenders are Great Ogboru, Delta State APC Governorship candidate in 2019 general elections and Nsima Ekere, Akwa Ibom State Governorship candidate in 2019 polls.

This is just as BusinessDay gathered that APC may zone the office of National Chairman out of Edo State, except if it win the September 19 Governorship election in the State.

Recall that the National Working Committee of APC led by Oshiomhole was recently dissolved by the National Executive Committee (NEC), following protracted leadership crisis precipitated by the Court of Appeal ruling which upheld his suspension by APC Executives in Ward 10 of Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.

Consequently, NEC constituted Caretaker/Extra-Ordinary National Convention Planning Committee led by the Governor of Yobe State, Mai-Mala Buni and former APC National Secretary with the cardinal mandate to organise a National Convention within six months.

The Buni-led Caretaker/Extra-Ordinary National Convention Planning Committee has already commenced consultations with stakeholders across the six geopolitical zones with first visit to South-West where it met with the former Interim National Chairman, Bisi Akande and APC National Leader, Bola Tinubu.

After the consultations and reconciliation visits and meetings, the Committee would begin the process of National Convention after Edo and Ondo Governorship elections, holding September and October, respectively.

Already, political permutations have began on who would emerge the next APC Chairman within the South-South geopolitical zone, except Edo where the retention of the seat is dependent on outcome of the governorship election ahead.

An insider in the APC scheme of things dismissed insinuations that the party would zone the seat to another geopolitical zone, stressing that someone from South- South must be elected to complete the two years left for Oshiomhole.

The APC Chieftain who would not want to be mentioned told BusinessDay that: “It will still be South South. Any convention they want to do now, they will use it to complete the two years left for Oshiomhole.

“It is after 2022 that they will rezone it. It is 2022 that they will say Chairman will come from North, Secretary will come from South West, and so on”.

He however, emphasized that: “They are not even zoning it to Edo. They are even struggling now to win Edo. Can they win Edo? Do you think it is easy to win Obaseki there.”

On the possibility of Oshiomhole contesting again, the party’s kingpin said: “Oshiomhole will contest for what? Somebody they sacked? Even if he wants to contest nobody will give him form. They have blacklisted him”.

Meanwhile, names of notable APC chieftains from the remaining South-South States, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta and Rivers are permeating discourse on who becomes the next party’s National Chairman. They include: Giadom, Ebiri, Lyon, Ogboru and Ekere.

GIADOM

Giadom is from Rivers State and the immediate past APC factional National Chairman who coordinated the NEC that led to the dissolution of the Oshiomhole-led NWC which he was originally a member, serving as Deputy National Secretary.

Giadom is considered fit for the office of National Chairman based on his demonstrable courage that blocked Oshiomhole loyalists in the NWC from stage managing his return despite the hue and cry against his leadership. There are permutations that he would rewarded with the National Chairman slot for his bravery that saved the party.

EBIRI 

Ebiri, a former Governor of Cross Rivers State is said to be another potential APC National Chairman. The APC chieftain who also aspired for the office at the 2018 National Convention is favoured by those who want a level headed National Chairman that would maintain stability and has the administrative acumen to run a party. According to pundits, Ebiri was the desired candidate by most APC Governors and other leaders in 2018 until President Muhammadu Buhari threw his weight behind Oshiomhole.

LYON

Lyon was elected Governor of Bayelsa State under the platform of the APC but his election was upturned by Supreme Court on the eve of his inauguration over inconsistencies in the credentials of his running mate. For breaking the jinx of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) by winning at least at ballot, many believed that Lyon is a material APC National Chairman. Discussions are said to be ongoing by party stalwarts from the State and the entire zone to try a relatively non regular name.

OGBORU

Ogboru, a serial governorship aspirant was also the APC governorship candidate in the 2019 general election for Delta State. Popularly called by his first name, ‘Great’, feelers are that Ogboru is considering to take shot at the APC National Chairmanship. Many party supporters see him as someone with the vibrancy such as that of Oshiomhole who can adequately counter the opposition.

EKERE

Ekere was the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDCC) and the APC Governorship candidate for Akwa Ibom in the 2019 general elections. Ekere according to credible party sources is been considered by party leaders for the position of National Chairman based on perceived his loyalty. One APC chieftain said Ekere will be just like the PDP National Chairman, Uche Secondus who is not always fighting with party leaders and members.