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SSAEAC issues PHED 14 days ultimatum to review staff condition of service
By Tina Amanda
Senor Staff Association of Electricity and Allied Companies (SSAEAC), has issued fourteen (14) days ultimatum to Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHED) over failure to sign PHED reviewed condition of service and remittance payment of retirement pension or face industrial action.
The Union in a letter dated 22 July, 2024, and signed by the Deputy General Secretary, Comrade Innocent Lord-Douglas, demand immediate payment of the forty-two (42) months outstanding retirement remittance Pensions of PHED staff.
They further expressed concern that their members has suffered untold hardship as a result of the unpaid remittance, while threatening to shutdown all electricity operations in Rivers State.
The letter reads: “I am directed by our National Leadership to issue you a 14 day Ultimatum starting from today, to immediately schedule a date to sign the PHED reviewed condition of service as a working document within this 14 days on notice.
“The PHED condition of service review committee completed its assignment since October 2023, and as such, your Management has been operating with an expired condition of service, the implication of this is that you cannot enforce disciplinary action on any staff with an expired Condition of Service, of course, you are aware that Condition of Service is a deed(a constitution) that is drawn to guide the working relationship between Employees and their Employers and your continuous refusal for it to be signed as a working document despite all our entreaties leaves much to be desired ten months after the Condition of Service was reviewed.
“Secondly, we felt compelled to demand that within the next 14 days you pay off the 42 months outstanding Remittance of retirement Pensions of PHED staff or face a total shut down of your facilities in Rivers State and your franchise states.
“Our members has suffered untold hardship due to the high handedness of your Management for withholding this remittance without thinking about the contributions from their poor salaries. The victims of this crime extends to the retired staff that cannot access their PFA because your management refused to remit their deductions to their pension fund Administrations.
“May i also remind you that your refusal to remit contributions within the stipulated time under the PRA 2014 had in addition to the outstanding remittance, in-cure a penalty not less than 2% of the unremitted funds in accordance with the provisions of section II(6) 8(7) of the PRA 2014.
“We are hopeful that you will heed to this request to averts the consequences of being shut out of businesses and the embarrassment that is associated to it”.
Fubara Honored as Governor of the Year 2023 by Independent Newspapers
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has been honored with the prestigious Independent Governor of the Year 2023 Award (Peace and Stability). The award, presented by the management of Independent Newspapers, recognizes Governor Fubara’s outstanding contributions to promoting peace and excellence in Rivers State despite numerous provocations, challenges, and distractions.
During the presentation ceremony at the Government House in Port Harcourt, Managing Director, and Editor-in-Chief, Mr. Steve Omanufeme, praised Governor Fubara for his remarkable impact on the state’s socio-economic and political landscape. Omanufeme commended the governor for his commitment to transforming the state and his dedication to nation-building.
Omanufeme also used the occasion to felicitate Governor Fubara on his 49th birthday, highlighting the governor’s exemplary leadership and demeanor in the face of political turmoil. He encouraged Governor Fubara to continue his good work, stating, “Your Excellency, your positive impact on Rivers State is evident in the rapid transformation witnessed across various sectors. Your commitment to the nation’s rebirth has inspired a new generation of dynamic and vibrant individuals to participate in the state-building process.”
Read Also: Fubara’s Vision for Rivers Education: Free From Politics
Notably, Governor Fubara in his response expressed his gratitude to Independent Newspapers for the recognition, emphasizing his desire to leave a lasting legacy of a state with ample opportunities for all. He stressed the importance of peace in driving development, stating, “Peace is the foundation upon which development thrives. Those who seek to disrupt the peace are enemies of the state.” Governor Fubara reaffirmed his commitment to fostering a peaceful atmosphere, ensuring that Rivers State continues to prosper and grow.
Eze Fires Back at Okocha Over Amaechi’s Alleged APC Exit
Former New People’s Democratic Party Publicity Secretary, Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, has strongly refuted claims made by Tony Okocha that Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, ex-Rivers State Governor, has quit the All Progressives Congress (APC). Okocha had earlier alleged that Amaechi warned the party leadership against inviting him to political events. Eze countered Okocha’s statement, labeling it a fabrication and urging Nigerians to disregard and ignore it.
Eze, in a statement on Thursday, described Okocha as a “notorious peddler of falsehoods” and a “skilled practitioner of character assassination” with a natural talent for spreading misinformation. He also suggested that Okocha’s recent outbursts may be a sign of cognitive decline, leading to “bizarre, absurd, and pointless ramblings.” Eze encouraged Okocha to seek psychiatric evaluation to address his apparent mental health issues.
Notably, Eze also referenced a viral video where Okocha admitted to writing and falsifying election results, calling for his immediate questioning by security agencies. He lamented that in Nigeria, individuals with questionable morals and psychiatric issues are allowed to roam freely, endangering society. This, he said, is a sad reflection of the country’s departure from being a sane society.
Also Read: Wike has Publicly Disrespected You, sanction Him – Momodu tells Tinubu
According to Eze, Okocha’s claims are mere attention-seeking attempts, which Amaechi is not willing to give him. He emphasized that Amaechi’s contributions to the APC are undeniable and that his leadership position in the party remains unchallenged. Eze repeatedly pointed out that Amaechi has not announced his departure from the APC and remains a leader and key figure in the party. He noted that Amaechi’s commitment to the party’s ideals and values is unwavering, and his influence is still there for the blind to see.
It bears mentioning that Eze dismissed Okocha as a “hired impostor” and “political opportunist” whose claims should be ignored. He urged the public to focus on credible sources and disregard Okocha’s fabrications. Eze also cautioned against giving attention to individuals who seek to sow discord and confusion, emphasizing the need for unity and cohesion in the party.
NMA Condemns Security Invasion at Rivers State Health Center
By Tina Amanda
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has condemned the invasion of security personnel at a health sensitization event for mothers, children, and pregnant women at the Eliozu Primary Health Care Center in Obio Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State.
NMA Chairman for Rivers State, Dr. Ebi Robinson, expressed his displeasure in Port Harcourt, describing the incident as highly insensitive and unacceptable behavior by the security forces.
Dr. Robinson emphasized that health facilities are places where essential and critical care is provided, and such invasions pose serious threats to the lives of patients and attendees of the immunization program, which was organized by the Primary Health Care Center in partnership with the Rivers State Ministry of Health.
He called on Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun and other stakeholders in the security sector to investigate the incident and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
“The attention of the Nigerian Medical Association has been drawn to the news-making round on the invasion of armed personnel at Eliozu Primary Health Center, in the program organized by the Ministry of Health and the primary health care management board concerning the immunization of children, and pregnant women against some killer diseases.
“These actions are quite condemnable and it is not acceptable to us, we vehemently condemn it because health institutions are where essential and critical care is being given and administered to people.
“Even in times of war health facilities are not being invaded rather they have been protected and health care providers are protected to render services to the critically ill.
“A scenario and event where preventive health care is being administered by immunization to mothers and children, also pregnant women, invasion of such environment by armed officers is highly commendable, not acceptable.
“On this note we want to state categorically that Nigerian Medical Association, we go strongly against this act while we call on the Inspector General of Police, all the critical stakeholders in the security sector to investigate the invasion of a health facility when children, armless mother’s and pregnant women are being invaded by security personnel’s”.
However, it was alleged that one CSP Salihu Masalachi, Head of the Police Tactical Unit Operations Center in Rumuepirikom, Obio/Akpor Local Government, led officers to disrupt a vital health program in partnership with the Rivers State Ministry of Health, held at the Eliozu community, on Wednesday 24 July 2024.
The event aimed at aiding pregnant women and nursing mothers, was violently interrupted by the invasion.
Rivers Angels Selected for FIFA Women’s World Cup Club Benefits Programme
Positive news for Rivers State football enthusiasts! Local powerhouse Rivers Angels has been selected to receive funding through the prestigious FIFA Women’s World Cup Club Benefits Programme (CBP). This initiative, established in 2019, aims to recognize and reward the crucial role clubs play in developing talented players who ultimately grace the biggest stage in women’s football – the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The CBP distributes a total of $11.3 million to eligible clubs across the globe. The specific amount each club receives is determined by their role in a player’s development journey. This can include being the club that officially released a player to participate in the World Cup or having provided crucial training during their formative years between the ages of 12 and 22. While the specific details concerning the amount Rivers Angels will receive haven’t been disclosed yet, this financial injection is undoubtedly a positive development for the club and women’s football in Rivers State as a whole.
The potential benefits of the CBP for Rivers Angels are multi-fold:
Enhanced Resources: The financial support allows the club to consider improvements in training facilities, potentially expanding or upgrading existing infrastructure. Additionally, resources can be directed towards investing in top-tier coaching programs and specialized training resources. These investments can directly translate to a more professional and competitive environment for the players, potentially attracting even more talented young women to the club.
Validation of Development Efforts: Receiving recognition from FIFA through the CBP program serves as a significant validation of the crucial role Rivers Angels plays in nurturing young female footballers. This recognition highlights the club’s dedication to player development and its contribution to the overall growth of the sport in the region. It also serves as a potential boost to the club’s prestige and reputation within the national and international football landscape.
Also Read: Nigeria’s Super Falcons To Face Brazil in Crucial Opener
Investing in the Future: The financial boost empowers the club to develop and implement long-term strategies for player development. This could encompass initiatives like scouting programs that identify promising young talent at the grassroots level, or specialized training regimens designed to further hone players’ skills. Additionally, resources could be directed towards improving support staff, including sports psychologists and nutritionists, to create a holistic development environment. Such investments have the potential to propel Rivers Angels to even greater heights on the national and international stage, bringing further pride and recognition to Rivers State.
The CBP program represents a significant step forward for women’s football globally. By financially rewarding clubs that contribute to players’ journeys, FIFA is providing a vital incentive for continued investment in grassroots development. This, in turn, can lead to a more robust talent pipeline for national teams and further elevate the overall competitiveness of the sport within Rivers State and across Nigeria.
Further details regarding the specific amount allocated to Rivers Angels and their intended use of the funds are expected to be released in the coming days. This information will provide a clearer picture of how the CBP program will directly impact the club and contribute to the continued growth of women’s football in Rivers State. With this financial injection and continued dedication to development, Rivers Angels has the potential to become a dominant force in women’s football for years to come, bringing further honor to the state.
Clash Between Fubara and Wike’s Supporters Leaves Baby Unconscious
A violent clash between supporters of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and former governor Nyesom Wike in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area has left a baby unconscious after being tear-gassed
The incident occurred on Wednesday during a government medical outreach in the Eliozu community, where officials of the state Ministry of Health were providing medical services to women.
Eyewitnesses reported the drama started when supporters of Fubara and Wike’s factional Speaker of the State House of Assembly, engaged in a heated argument, leading to a physical altercation and stone-pelting.
Police arrived at the scene, firing teargas to disperse the crowd, but a baby was caught in the chaos and became unconscious. The medical outreach was relocated to a state-owned facility at the Waterlines axis in Port Harcourt.
Obio/Akpor CTC Chairman Chijioke Ihunwo accused Amaewhule of leading policemen to disrupt the outreach and called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene.
Read Also: Tinubu Appeals To Nigerians To Halt Protest Against Hardship
Ihunwo stated, “There was an incident at the Eliozu Health Centre this morning, where the former Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule led some security men to disrupt a program by the Ministry of Health.
“A few minutes later, a few policemen showed up and started beating up our women, shooting tear gas at pregnant women who were at the Health Centre.
“We want to say that Obio/Akpor Local Government Area will not be under siege. We want to call on the President that the Inspector General of Police and the Minister of the FCT are tarnishing the image of your government.
“We are calling on you to rein them in so that Rivers State can have respite. Let the FCT Minister concentrate on his job and leave our governor alone.”
When contacted, the spokesperson for the state police command, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the incident.
Iringe-Koko stated that the police responded to a distress call over the scenario, adding that the investigation was ongoing.
She said, “A distress call was received from the health center in the Eliozu community today, 24th July 2024, where supporters of two separate political factions were engaged in a fight.
“The police responded by sending operatives to the scene to restore order.
“The police deployed the use of canisters to disperse the crowds. An investigation into the matter has been initiated.”
It bears mentioning that the state police command confirmed the incident and initiated an investigation.
Navy Busts Illegal Oil Bunkering Operation in Rivers State
The Nigerian Navy has arrested two individuals alleged to have turned their private residence into an illegal refinery in the Okwuzi Community of the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni of Rivers state.
The Commander of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder stationed in Port Harcourt, Commodore Desmond Igbo, said on Wednesday it discovered and sealed a private residence during a ‘search and seize’ operation where 200,000 liters of illegally refined diesel or Automated Gas Oil was uncovered and confiscated.
Commodore Desmond Igbo disclosed the above to newsmen in Port Harcourt on Wednesday after leading a military team to the crime scene.
The navy said three suspects, including the owner of the property, were arrested during the search and seize operation.
Commodore Igbo says the initial raw material was siphoned from pipelines and bagged in sacks and tanks within the compound.
“The search and seizure was conducted based on credible intelligence, leading us to a private compound used solely for illegal refining of petroleum products.
“About 200,000 liters of illegally refined diesel, bagged in sacks, are suspected to be a product from crude oil siphoned from neighboring pipelines,” he said.
Also Read: Tinubu Appeals To Nigerians To Halt Protest Against Hardship
Licensed Customs Agents Demand Government Action Against Illegal Practices at Onne Port
Igbo further described the recent operation as timely, adding that the product was already packaged for sale.
“We arrested the owner of the property and one of his workers, while efforts are ongoing to arrest others involved in the criminal act.
“Recall that a few weeks ago, the Nigerian Navy relaunched phase three of Operation Delta Sanity aimed at curbing crude oil theft, illegal bunkering, and related illicit activities in the Niger Delta.
“The siphoning of crude oil is bad for the economy, and so, NNS Pathfinder is determined to apprehend those undermining the nation’s economy, whether on land or water,” Igbo said.
He added that the suspects would be transferred to the appropriate prosecuting authorities.
He mentioned that the unauthorized bunkering location has been sealed off as the investigation is underway.
He pointed out that the navy had been tasked with supplementing the nation’s crude oil production to fulfill the OPEC quota of 1.5 million barrels per day for the current year.
Igbo disclosed that the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, has directed the naval forces to intensify surveillance around the oil installations to achieve the objective as such the NNS Pathfinder is determined to apprehend defaulters wherever they are.
Senate Approves Bill to Increase Minimum Wage to ₦70,000
The Nigerian Senate has approved a bill to raise the national minimum wage from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000, effectively making it a law.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced the approval following the bill’s third reading during a plenary session in Abuja on Tuesday.
The bill was proposed by President Bola Tinubu after discussions with labour leaders, the bill also reduces the review period for the minimum wage from five years to three years.
Akpabio emphasized that the bill aims to amend the National Minimum Wage Act 2019, ensuring regular wage adjustments to match economic conditions.”Distinguished colleagues, the third reading has been taken and passed,” Akpabio stated, confirming the bill’s passage in both legislative chambers of the National Assembly.
The bill’s swift approval came after President Tinubu transmitted it to the National Assembly, urging prompt consideration. Both the Senate and the House of Representatives passed the bill immediately, reflecting unanimous support.
President Tinubu is expected to sign the bill into law in the coming days. This development follows a series of negotiations between the government and organized labour. Initially, the federal government proposed a minimum wage of ₦62,000, while labour demanded ₦250,000, leading to a deadlock.
After months of discussions, a truce was reached last Thursday, with both sides agreeing on ₦70,000 as the new minimum wage. The agreement was facilitated by a tripartite committee comprising representatives from state and federal governments, as well as the organized private sector.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President, Joe Ajaero, explained that labor accepted the ₦70,000 offer because it includes more frequent reviews of the minimum wage, now every three years instead of five.
The legislative move aims to address the economic challenges faced by Nigerian workers, including inflation and the high cost of living, which have intensified since the removal of the petrol subsidy. By ensuring regular wage adjustments, the government hopes to alleviate the financial burden on workers and promote economic stability.
These bill’s passage marks a significant step towards ensuring fair and sustainable wages in the country.
Anti-Graft Agency Nabs Fours Suspects in Kano for Alleged Naira Mutilation
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) announced the arrest of four suspects for alleged naira note recycling and manipulating contents.
This was contained in a statement released through their X handle on Wednesday stating that the suspects were apprehended following verified information concerning their activities at Unity Road, Kantin Kwari Market in Kano State.
Their names are Kamaluddeen Lawal, a banker and three businessmen, Ismail Ilu, Lamido Bala, and Abba Mohammed.
Meanwhile, EFCC exposed their means of operation along with their accomplice after investigations were carried out.
“Investigations showed that the suspects specialised in obtaining mutilated Naira notes from various banks with the sole purpose of removing a few notes from each bundle and depositing them in their bank accounts with a particular bank where their banker accomplice would receive the money as the original amount.”
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The statement explained further: “The suspects were perpetrating the fraud by going to their respective banks and asking for a certain denomination (in this case, N200 notes) and carefully removing a few notes from each bundle.”
“They would then take it to their accomplice at the bank, who would collect the money and make entries as filled in by the tellers without counting them on the agreement that they would later give him his share of the money they removed.
According to the report, it was said that the sum of N7.5 million was recovered as of when they were arrested.
However, the anti-graft agency said that the suspects will be charged in court after the investigation has been concluded.
Nigeria’s Super Falcons To Face Brazil in Crucial Opener
The super falcons will begin their olympic campaign with a crucial opener against the samba girls of Brazil on July 25th of July.
The Super Falcons are back to the Olympics 16 years since they last featured and coincidentally they were beaten 3-1 by Brazil at the Beijing 2008 Games.
The big game will be played at the Matmut Atlantique Stadium in Bordeaux. It will start at 6 pm. The stadium is a great place to play and watch games, and the evening time will make it even more exciting. The teams will play hard, and the crowd will cheer them on. The stadium will be full of estatic spectators , making a lot of noise and creating a lot of energy.
The two nations have a rich history of competition on the football pitch, with another notable encounter taking place at the 1991 World Cup. In a thrilling match that went beyond the regular 90 minutes, the Super Falcons faced off against their opponents in a nail-biting contest that ultimately ended in a 4-3 loss for the Nigerian team.
The match was decided in extra time, with the Golden Goal rule coming into play. This rule, which was used from 1993 to 2004, awarded the winning team a goal scored during extra time, ending the game immediately. Unfortunately for the Super Falcons, their opponents capitalized on this rule, scoring the decisive goal that sealed their victory.
This historic encounter showcases the intense rivalry between the two teams, with both sides demonstrating skill, determination, and a relentless pursuit of victory. The match remains an unforgettable chapter in the annals of football history, highlighting the Super Falcons’ unwavering spirit and their capacity to push their opponents to the limit.
As the nine-time African champions prepare for the tournament, they face a daunting task in Group C, where they will confront three formidable opponents. Brazil, known for their exceptional skill and flair, will be a difficult team to overcome. However, the challenges don’t end there, as the reigning world champions, Spain, and the 2011 champions, Japan, are also part of the group.
To advance to the next stage, the African champions will need to navigate this highly competitive group, showcasing their skills, strategy, and determination against some of the world’s top teams. The group stage promises to be an exciting and intense ride, with each match presenting an opportunity for the teams to demonstrate their prowess and secure a spot in the knockout phase.
The Brazilian women’s national team, led by the iconic Martha, will be eager to make a strong impression as hosts of the 2027 World Cup. However, their recent performance at the last World Cup was underwhelming, failing to advance beyond the group stage.
In contrast, Nigeria’s Super Falcons are gearing up for their fourth Olympic appearance, with their best finish being a quarterfinal berth at the 2004 Athens Games, where they narrowly lost to Germany. Building on their impressive display at the last World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, where they defied expectations by escaping the “Group of Death” alongside powerhouses Australia and Canada, the Super Falcons are poised for a strong showing in Paris.
Following a two-week training camp in Sevilla, Spain, where they faced Canada in a friendly match, the Super Falcons are ready to take on the Olympic challenge, driven by their determination to improve on past performances and make a lasting impact on the global stage.
Coach Randy Waldrum said he is happy with performance of the team despite the loss.
“We were very good in the attacking phase, our possession was good,” offered an upbeat Waldrum.
“I thought it was a much better performance than we had in the World Cup against them (Canada).
“We created more chances against them than we did at the World Cup.
“I have seen a lot of improvement since the World Cup until now.”
The team will be without two players who played crucial roles at the World Cup – Ashleigh Plumptre and Halimatu Ayinde – no thanks to injury.
Chindinma Okeke and Nicole Payne, both based in Japan, are set to contest for the vacant right-back position previously held by Plumptre, vying for a spot in the starting lineup.
In midfield, Deborah Abiodun’s dynamic energy is expected to offset the loss of Ayinde’s experience and skill, bringing a fresh perspective to the team’s playmaking.
Meanwhile, the squad’s attacking capabilities have been significantly enhanced with the addition of Chinwendu Ihezuo, a prolific striker based in Mexico. Ihezuo’s impressive strength, speed, and relentless pressing will pose a constant threat to opposing teams’ defenses, adding depth and potency to the Super Falcons’ front line.
