latest
Tension Mounts As Monarchs, Stakeholders Blast Okowa’s Position On Anioma State Plan.
Traditional rulers and key stakeholders in Delta North have openly disagreed with former Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, over the proposed creation of Anioma State.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
While Okowa had opposed the initiative, cautioning that it would amount to dismembering Delta State and arguing that such a move would undermine the legacy of Maryam Babangida, traditional rulers in the region have restated their strong support for the state creation. They also called on political leaders to close ranks and act in unity.
The monarchs further expressed concern over what they described as unhealthy political divisions among some sons and daughters of Anioma land, warning that such conduct could derail the long-standing agitation for statehood.
This position was made public during the inaugural meeting of the Technical Committee on the Creation of Anioma State, held at the palace of the Obuzor of Ibusa in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State.
The stakeholders emphasised the need to stay focused on achieving statehood, stressing that partisan interests must not be allowed to interfere with the constitutional process already in motion.
In his remarks, the committee chairman and Obuzor of Ibusa, HRM Louis Nwaoboshi, noted that the agitation for Anioma State dates back to 1980 and has remained consistent across generations of advocates whenever opportunities arose.
He explained that in 2025, Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North in the Senate, sponsored a bill seeking the creation of Anioma State with Asaba proposed as the capital.
Nwaoboshi warned that history would not be kind to anyone working against the realisation of the state, insisting that the process is constitutional and being carefully guided by the technical committee.
He also criticised what he termed unnecessary politicisation of the movement, urging stakeholders to prioritise the collective aspiration over political rivalries.
According to him, the demand for Anioma State is rooted in historical grievances dating back to 1939, when Anioma communities were administratively grouped with Benin despite their distinct identity east of the River Niger following the Ekumeku War.
He added that Anioma should be seen as a shared identity rather than a divisive project, noting that wider consultations would soon be held to strengthen unity among supporters.
The stakeholders also cautioned political actors in Delta North against actions that could undermine the process, including premature endorsements of candidates ahead of the 2027 elections.
They reiterated that traditional rulers would remain neutral and focused solely on the collective interest of the Anioma people.
Also speaking, the Obi of Ubulu-Uno and Second Vice Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, HRM Henry Kikachukwu, referenced recent consultations with National Assembly leaders in Abuja.
He explained that earlier uncertainties, including comments attributed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, were clarified during engagements with federal lawmakers.
Kikachukwu also revealed that the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, advised proponents of the state creation to expand consultations across the region.
He maintained that the agitation is strictly for the creation of Anioma State and not a separate geopolitical zone, dismissing claims about any capital outside Asaba as misinformation. He further noted Asaba’s historical significance as a former headquarters of the Royal Niger Company as justification for its proposed status as capital.
He expressed optimism, citing assurances from top national leaders, including the Senate President and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, that the proposal is receiving attention at the highest level.
On his part, the National President of Izu Anioma, Dr Kingsley Ojei, described the creation of Anioma State as the foremost demand of the people.
He recalled that during the 2014/2015 political period, Anioma leaders pursued two key objectives: producing a governor from Delta North and securing the creation of Anioma State. He noted that while the first goal was achieved in 2015, the second remains outstanding.
Ojei added that renewed momentum in recent years has strengthened the agitation, expressing confidence that achieving statehood would unlock other aspirations of the Anioma people.
He also endorsed Senator Ned Nwoko for another term in the Senate, praising his role in sponsoring the state creation bill.
The meeting concluded with a resolution to engage both Senator Ned Nwoko and former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa in reconciliation efforts aimed at presenting a united front for the Anioma State project.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) Regional Director for Africa, Mohamed Janabi, has announced that Nigeria currently has no Ebola cases following the evacuation of the index patient and her husband to Switzerland.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Reports indicate that the patient was airlifted out of Nigeria aboard a medical air ambulance through the private jet wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
In a statement posted on his X account on Monday, Janabi said Nigeria would continue monitoring 52 contacts, while Switzerland would take responsibility for the patient’s ongoing medical care and monitor her husband.
He disclosed that the evacuation took place earlier in the morning, adding that both the patient and her husband are Swiss citizens.
According to Janabi, the patient was clinically stable following successful treatment by Nigerian medical teams, who managed her through the acute phase of the illness and stabilised her condition before the evacuation.
The WHO regional director commended the Federal Government, healthcare workers, clinicians, emergency responders and other partners for their contributions to Nigeria’s Ebola response.
He said the successful management of the patient demonstrated Africa’s expertise, resilience and leadership in public health, particularly when countries collaborate to tackle health emergencies.
However, Janabi emphasised that the evacuation did not mean vigilance could be relaxed, stressing the importance of continued contact monitoring and other public health response measures.
He reiterated that Nigeria would maintain close surveillance of 52 contacts, while Switzerland would oversee the patient’s continued treatment and monitor the 53rd contact, her husband.
Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick has said he does not expect to be sacked within the next 24 hours following his side’s disappointing 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth in the Premier League on Saturday.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The loss at Old Trafford has intensified scrutiny of Carrick as Manchester United continue to struggle with inconsistent performances and results this season.
According to football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who shared the manager’s comments on X on Sunday, Carrick acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding his future but maintained that he would continue carrying out his duties as usual.
“I totally understand the situation. I’m not expecting anything in particular, to be honest. I’m carrying on as normal and, you know, I love this place,” he said.
The former Manchester United midfielder also reaffirmed his commitment to the club, insisting that he would continue to act in what he considers the team’s best interests despite the mounting pressure.
Bournemouth’s victory further compounded United’s recent difficulties, marking their third defeat in four home matches and extending their winless run across all competitions to eight games.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and other senior club officials are considering possible replacements as they assess Carrick’s future at Old Trafford.
Former Bayern Munich manager Julian Nagelsmann and ex-Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe have reportedly emerged as leading candidates for the position.
However, Manchester United director of football Jason Wilcox and chief executive Omar Berrada are expected to make the final recommendation before presenting their preferred candidate to Ratcliffe.
The club has yet to announce any decision regarding Carrick’s future, leaving uncertainty over who will lead the team into their next Premier League fixture against Chelsea.
Yoruba Nation activist Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has criticised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde over his alleged mockery of President Bola Tinubu.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
According to reports, Igboho condemned Makinde’s conduct during a public event, describing it as childish and disrespectful to the President.
Makinde had challenged rival presidential candidates to demonstrate their physical stamina after jumping off a stage during a campaign meeting in Akure, Ondo State, on October 22.
The governor made the demonstration at the APM South-West Presidential Campaign Town Hall Meeting held at the Ondo State International Conference Centre, popularly known as The Dome.
While addressing supporters, Makinde said he would focus on candidates’ energy levels and ability to withstand the demands of leadership rather than making age a major issue ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Reacting to the incident, Igboho accused the Oyo governor of making fun of Tinubu and warned that he would respond to anyone who insulted the President.
In a statement on Sunday, the Yoruba Nation activist said Makinde’s actions amounted to disrespect towards the President.
“He was jumping around like a frog and a mad man, insulting Tinubu, saying Tinubu can’t jump like him as if he doesn’t have a father.
“If you insult Tinubu, I will insult you back. Anyone who wants to live long should not mock an elderly person for any reason,” Igboho said.
-
latest1 year ago“Social Media Erupts As Jim Iyke Declares Rita Dominic Nollywood’s Most Beautiful”
-
latest3 years agoEdo Political Showdown: Oshiomhole Appears At Presidential Villa As Tinubu Hands APC Gubernatorial Flag To Okpebholo (Photos & Video)
-
entertainment3 years agoLove Knows No Age American Woman Defends Marriage To Young Nigerian Man “I’m Not 70”
-
latest3 years agoOlumide Akpata Strikes Again: Drops Killer Track, Sends Edo State Into Frenzy!(Video)
-
Politics3 years agoNigerians React As Pastor Adeboye Foresees Passing Away On A Sunday After Enjoying A Satisfying Meal Of Pounded Yam
-
latest3 years agoFG Identifies 31 States At Risk Of Heavy Flooding In 2024: See Full List
-
Politics3 years agoBREAKING: Inspector-General Of Police Summons Top Police Commanders For Crucial-Security Challenges
-
latest3 years ago5 NYSC Corpers Perish In Fatal Road Accident Returning From Camp