Uncategorized
Gov. Diri Goes Hard On Cultism At State University, Directs VC To Expel Culprits *Flags Off Key Projects
By David Owei
Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, on Friday, gave a stern warning to students engaging in cult activities at the state-owned Niger Delta University (NDU), Wilberforce Island, Amassoma, in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area to withdraw from the institution or be ready for expulsion.
Governor Diri also directed the Vice Chancellor and the institution’s management to fish out culprits and dismiss anyone found culpable.
The Bayelsa governor gave the directive during the NDU 7th Combined Convocation following recent incidents of students cult rivalry that reportedly claimed lives in the community.
It was the second time in a week that the governor had issued such warning.
He gave a similar directive to security agencies in the state and the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice on Wednesday during the state executive council meeting to speedily prosecute anyone arrested for cult-related crimes in the state.
He restated his call on students to avoid cultism, stressing that there was no room for such activities in universities, but rather it is a place for character building and learning.
He said: “Recently, I spoke to the Vice Chancellor about the resurgence of cultism in this university. May I use this opportunity to warn those who did not come here for learning and character building to on their own withdraw.
“There should be no room for cultism in this university. I have given the Vice Chancellor a charge as the Visitor to this institution, and as government, I have also charged all security agencies in the state. Anyone found engaging in cultism in this university, do not hesitate to apply the sanctions.”
Governor Diri assured the institution that 25 years after it was established by the Diepreye Alamieyeseigha administration, his government will actively contribute to the narrative that will shape it for the next 25 years.
He said having done the groundbreaking of the 5000-seater convocation arena and the Faculty of Environmental Sciences building before the ceremony commenced, these were tangible expressions of his government’s commitment to fostering an environment conducive to academic excellence.
He assured that under his administration, facilities in the institution will adhere to accreditation standards set by the National Universities Commission and the relevant regulatory councils and boards.
“As I reflect on this momentous occasion, my joy is indeed amplified by the knowledge that, as a government we are in our modest way actively contributing to the narrative that will shape the next 25 years for this pioneer tertiary institution.
“It is notable that the Faculty of Environmental Science complex boasts a comprehensive range of facilities, featuring 24 classrooms, 18 design studios, 6 modeling studios, 6 workshops/laboratories, and a state-of-the-art lecture theatre with a seating capacity of 300.”
Earlier, Prof. Allen Agih thanked the governor for appointing him as the 5th Vice Chancellor of the institution and that it was his first convocation ceremony.
The VC said 6,536 graduands took part in the ceremony, including 5,726 for Bachelor’s degrees with 69 First Class honours.
There were also 810 higher degrees graduands, including 16 professional diplomas, 191 post- graduate diplomas and 458 Master’s degrees.
Also, the Pro Chancellor, Dr. Matthew Seiyefa, said NDU had produced adequate manpower knowledge base that has contributed significantly to its growth and development.
He noted that the institution had evolved to become the melting pot of ideas and initiatives, vital for navigating climate change and economic diversification.
Also present at the events were the deputy governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, member representing Sagbama/Ekeremor Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Dr. Fred Agbedi, Speaker of the House of Assembly, Abraham Ingobere, member representing Southern Ijaw Constituency 1, Felix Ayah, chairman of the state Peoples Democratic Party, Solomon Agwana, the Chief of Staff, Government House, Dr. Peter Akpe, cabinet members and other top government functionaries.
Wives of Nigerian Senators, have commiserated with one of their members Hajia Laila Barau, over the death of her mother, Mrs Nelda Mohammed, describing it as an “irreplaceable loss.”
A condolence message signed by the President, Senators Wives Association of Nigeria (SEWAN) Dr (Mrs) Unoma Godswill Akpabio, and made available to newsmen in Abuja, reads:
“We, the Senators’ Wives Association of Nigeria, extend our heartfelt condolences on the passing of your beloved mother. This irreparable loss undoubtedly brings immense grief to you and your family.
“We also commiserate with the Deputy Senate President, Distinguished Senator Jibrin Barau and the entire family over her demise and prays for her soul to rest in the bosom of the Lord.
“May the memories of your mother’s love, wisdom, and legacy bring you strength and comfort during this difficult time. We stand in solidarity with you, sharing in your sorrow and offering our deepest sympathies and may Almighty Allah grant her Jannatul Firdaus.
Dr. Mrs. Unoma Akpabio
President, Senators’ Wives Association of Nigeria.
Uncategorized
2nd Phase Leaders Complete Training on Leadership and Mediation – Gen. Elaye Lauds Otuaro’s Visionary Drive
By David Owei,Bayelsa
The 2nd Phase Camp Leaders’ training on “Leadership, Alternative Dispute Resolution and Mediation”, sponsored by the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), has successfully come to a close Friday on a commendable note.
The intensive leadership-building initiative, held under the distinguished leadership of the Administrator of the PAP, High Chief Dr. Dennis Brutu Otuaro, aimed to equip leaders with practical skills in peacebuilding, mediation, and conflict resolution—critical tools for sustaining peace in the Niger Delta region.
Reacting to the successful completion of the programme, General Elaye ThankGod Dollar Slaboh, National Chairman of the Third Phase Presidential Amnesty Programme, alongside his national leadership, congratulated the participants for their commitment and active engagement throughout the training.
General Elaye commended Dr. Otuaro for his visionary leadership and strategic direction, which is rapidly changing the dynamics of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, shifting it towards human capital development and long-term peace.
He emphasized that such initiatives are essential for reinforcing grassroots leadership and consolidating the peace already being enjoyed in the region.
> “This training is not just a success for the 2nd Phase; it is a win for the entire Niger Delta. The wisdom of High Chief Otuaro in investing in leadership and conflict resolution will continue to bear fruit,” General Elaye stated.
The Presidential Amnesty Programme continues to champion developmental engagements that bridge gaps, empower beneficiaries, and promote sustainable peace in the Niger Delta.
Regional Development Minister,Engr Momoh bags Awards
By Our Correspondent
Minister of Regional Development, Engineer Abubakar Momoh has been conferred with two Awards by the Institute of Professional Economists and Management Policy (IPEPM) tagged ‘ Excellent Leadership Award and Professional Doctorate Fellowship Award”.
Receiving the Awards today in his office, Engr. Momoh, expressed profound gratitude for the recognition and reiterated that true governance is about leaving a lasting legacies.
He further said “My track record speaks for itself and is a testament to the awards I have received “.
He used the opportunity to commend the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visionary leadership and resilience in ensuring the holistic development of the country.
According to him, the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Regional Development is a bold step to integrate all Regional Development Commissions under one coordinated umbrella.
The Ministér said that the recognition bestowed upon him further reinforces his commitment to service and to impact mankind.
Earlier, the leader of the delegation who is the Executive Secretary/ National Coordinator of the Institute, Dr. Musa Aliu Yakub Okhumeode, said the courtesy visit was to present the prestigious Awards in recognition of his exceptional leadership and contribution to regional and national Development, as well as to seek partnership in strategic training programmes.
Senator Yar’Adua dumps APC …Says its derails from its original ideals, selfish, stinkingly corrupt
By Our Correspondent Senator Abubakar Sadiq Yar’adua has formally resigned his membership of the All Progressives Congress ( APC...
Akpabio bags prestigious international Peace award
By George Mgbeleke President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has been honoured with the International Peace Award by the...
2027: Otuaro Urges Niger Delta Ex-agitators To Shun Desperate Politicians Planning Mischief ••• Reaffirms Tinubu’s Commitment To Region
By David Owei, The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr Dennis Otuaro, has appealed to ex-agitators in the...
New Champion Emerges in Gov Diri National Scrabble Championship. …Gov Diri Reaffirms Administration’s Commitment to Hosting 2028 National Sports Festival
By David Owei Adebola Samuel of Ogun State has emerged winner of the Masters category in the 5th Governor...
INEC Reiterates Continuous Voters Registration In Bayelsa, – Warns Against Underage and Double Registration
By David Owei,Bayelsa The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Bayelsa state on Monday said they are fully prepared for the...
Group urges Gov AbdulRazaq to sign death penalty on Bello, a student killer
By Abdul-Ganiyy Akanbi A non-governmental organization dedicated to peace, stability and good governance in the country, the Muslim Media Watch...
LP faults INEC over exclusion from August 16 AMAC Bye-Elections …says decision is unlawful and abuse of power
By David Owei,Bayelsa The leadership of the Labour Party has faulted the decision by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)...
Senators’ Wives Commisserate With Colleague Over Mother’s Demise
Wives of Nigerian Senators, have commiserated with one of their members Hajia Laila Barau, over the death of her...
Group raises alarm over use of Magistrate, Area Courts against political opponents in Kebbi
By Abdul-Ganiyy Akanbi A civil rights group, the Centre for Reform and Public Advocacy, has raised an alarm over alleged...
Osun 2026 election:INEC cautions against vote buying, violence
By Our Correspondent The Independent National Electoral Commission has called for stronger collaboration among all stakeholders to combat electoral fraud...
-
Entertainment1 year agoJubilation galore as Parishioners of CKC Kurudu celebrate their cultural heritage ….FG should exploit our Cultural heritage to unite Nigerians-Rev Fr Dim
-
Law & Crime2 months agoICPC pledges to collaborate with FIDA to end Sex for Marks in tertiary institutions
-
General News1 year agoReps hold public hearing on FMC Ugwuaji Awkunanaw
-
Law & Crime3 weeks agoLegal practitioner raises alarm over threat to his life by CSP Muhammed Abdulkareem
-
General News1 year agoKugbo Hill Tragedy: Trailer Crushes Car, Kills Four and Injures Several Others in Abuja
-
General News1 year agoCelebration galore as UDA Successfully Elected New Exco ……I will digitalize processes that will raise UDA to greater height -Comr. Okejiri
-
Uncategorized6 months agoBenue govt drags NDIC to Federal High Court over illegal sell of shares …Demands N2.6billion damages
-
Politics1 year ago10th Senate @1: Akpabio’s Leadership Pedigree as Senate President in Focus