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AMORC President Calls for Love and Unity to Address Insecurity and Hardship in Nigeria
As Nigeria grapples with challenges like insecurity, hardship, and social unrest, the English Grand Lodge for West Africa, known as the Ancient Mystical Order Rosae Crucis (AMORC), has advocated for love and mutual respect as solutions. The call came during the 2024 AMORC Convention themed “Universal Love,” held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
AMORC President Eugenius Idiodi emphasized that many issues in Nigeria, including division and unrest, stem from a lack of mutual understanding and care. Speaking to journalists, Idiodi underscored the need for Nigerians to unite in a spirit of love, noting that universal love can bridge social divides and foster national unity.
“In Nigeria, as in many parts of the world, society faces widespread challenges,” Idiodi said. “Many of these issues trace back to a fundamental lack of concern for one another. Our message of universal love is a direct response to this crisis. We advocate for a shift where people see each other as brothers and sisters working toward unity, peace, and progress.”
Idiodi explained that embracing universal love enables society to function as an interconnected web, where individuals’ well-being affects the larger community. “When we act with care and consideration, we uplift ourselves and promote peace, harmony, and global well-being,” he added.
He encouraged AMORC members to be mindful of their impact on those around them, noting that a compassionate approach to life can make a positive difference. “All people are called to adopt a humane and thoughtful approach, acting with awareness of how we influence one another and the world.”
The convention, which concluded on November 3, 2024, brought together over 1,300 delegates, marking a period of bonding and solidarity among members and the inauguration of new leadership.
Rivers: Police Command Rescues 6-Month-Old Baby Kidnapped by Neighbour
By Tina Amanda
Detectives attached to Mile 1 Divisional Police Headquarters in Diobu, Port Harcourt, have successfully rescued a six-month-old baby, Lucky Sunday, who was kidnapped by a co-tenant, Erica, on Sunday, September 29, 2024.
Erica, a co-tenant of the child’s parents at 25 Anekelane Street, Mile 2, Diobu, abducted the baby and fled to Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Acting on intelligence, detectives trailed Erica to Uyo, arrested him, and brought him back to Port Harcourt two weeks ago.
During interrogation, Erica admitted to selling the child for five hundred thousand naira. Further investigations revealed that the buyer had taken the child to Enugu State.
On Sunday, November 3, 2024, following a discreet investigation, the detectives rescued the baby and arrested the buyer along with four other suspects. This brings the total number of arrests in connection with the case to six.
The suspects are currently being held at Mile 1 Police Station in Diobu, Port Harcourt.
The father of the child, Anekan Sunday, confirmed the rescue and the arrests but declined to provide further details. The Rivers State Police Command is yet to release an official statement regarding the operation.
Prince Wiro, a rights advocate and National Coordinator of the Centre for Basic Rights Protection and Accountability praised the police for their professionalism and dedication.
“We sincerely commend the officers of Mile 1 Police Division for their hard work in rescuing the child. Their diligence and professionalism are evident. We believe these officers deserve recognition from the police authorities.”
He also urged that any suspects found guilty be swiftly prosecuted to serve as a deterrent against future criminal activities of this nature.
Further updates are expected from the police as investigations continue.
NDDC Begins Channelization of Kolo Creek in Bayelsa and Rivers to Combat Flooding
The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has launched the channelization of Kolo Creek, a major waterway serving 17 communities from Okarki-Otuogidi to Ogbia, spanning both Rivers and Bayelsa States. This initiative aims to alleviate severe flooding, improve water flow, and enhance economic activities for communities along the creek.
Speaking at the groundbreaking event in Okarki, Ahoada West Local Government Area, Rivers State, NDDC Managing Director Samuel Ogbuku highlighted the project’s goal to reduce the impact of seasonal flooding, especially in areas along the Ahoada axis of the East-West Road. He also emphasized the added benefits of increased commercial activities, improved aquatic life, and reduced prevalence of waterborne diseases for local residents.
While acknowledging the project’s financial demands, Ogbuku assured the public that it would be completed on schedule, underscoring the NDDC’s commitment to addressing critical infrastructure needs in the Niger Delta. According to Ogbuku, the project responds to urgent appeals from local leaders who raised concerns over creek blockages and the resulting flood risks.
NDDC Executive Director of Projects, Sir Victor Antai, described the channelization as a significant achievement, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda by delivering impactful infrastructure improvements. The Traditional Ruler of Okarki, King Elijah Harry Aduan, expressed appreciation to the NDDC, honoring Ogbuku with the chieftaincy title “Itonji Oka-Akie I” (light of the people) for his efforts.
In addition to the channelization project, the NDDC also inspected one of its emergency shelters in Otuokpoti, Bayelsa State. These shelters, designed to provide refuge during flood emergencies, will include essential facilities such as schools, hospitals, police posts, and recreational centers.
Ogbuku confirmed that six such shelters are currently under construction, with two each in Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers States. Each shelter is designed to accommodate over 1,000 people, providing temporary housing and vital services to affected communities during floods.
Tragedy Strikes Rivers State: Building Collapse Claims Life, Injures Another
A devastating building collapse occurred in the Egbelu Mgbaraja area of Ogbogoro Community, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State, resulting in one fatality and severe injuries to another. This heartbreaking incident marks the second building collapse in the area within a week.
Jonathan Obey, an eyewitness, recounted the horrific events: “The building gave way while construction workers were on the second floor, tragically claiming the life of a young man identified simply as Udeme from Akwa Ibom State. Another worker narrowly escaped death but sustained serious injuries.”
Obey attributed the collapse to the use of substandard materials, highlighting inadequate foundation and supports. “When we came, we noticed that substandard materials were used in the construction. The building’s foundation was for a two-story structure, yet low-quality rods and insufficient cement were used. The decking lacked a center pillar and beam, which ultimately led to the collapse.”
Also Read: 3 Storey Building Collapses In Rivers State
Rivers State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Evans Bipi, swiftly visited the site, ordering it sealed and declaring the developer wanted. Bipi condemned the developer’s negligence, emphasizing that construction was carried out without government approval and with substandard materials.
“We’ve made it clear that if you build without approval, you will face the consequences. This site is sealed, and the developer has been declared wanted. He must answer for using substandard materials that led to the loss of life,” Bipi stated.
Bipi warned that the government would take strong action against the developer, using him as an example to deter others. “This is unacceptable. We must use him as an example.”
In a statement by his media aide, Emeka Idika Kalu, Bipi expressed sympathy to the victim’s family, stating that the remains would be kept at a mortuary, which would be publicly disclosed for family access. “This incident must serve as a warning to those building without government approval.”
Rivers State Commissioner for Special Duties, Samuel Anya, also expressed dismay over the incident, condemning the developer’s prioritization of profit over safety. “This is heartbreaking. Not only was the building of poor quality, but it also lacked proper approval. Someone has now paid the price with his life.
“The owner and engineer responsible must be held accountable as the government prioritizes the safety of lives,” Anya said.
The building collapse is the second in the area within a week, raising concerns about the enforcement of building codes and regulations. Residents have expressed fears about the safety of other buildings under construction.
Scores Injured as Police Disperse Local Government Workers with Teargas in Rivers State
Chaos erupted in Isiokpo, headquarters of the Ikwerre Local Government Area in Rivers State, as police dispersed local government workers with teargas and gunfire on Monday. Police officers in numerous patrol vans reportedly stormed the council secretariat in a “commando style,” firing sporadically, causing workers to flee for safety.
The incident disrupted a directive by the National Union of Local Government Employees, which had instructed council staff to resume work at the secretariat. Ikwerre LGA had been heavily affected by recent attacks on council buildings, reportedly led by political thugs following local government elections. Since the attacks, the council building has been locked to prevent further incidents.
Eyewitnesses said several workers, including two women, were injured in the chaos, with many fleeing into nearby bushes. A witness, who requested anonymity, described the sudden police arrival, stating, “We saw more than 100 policemen fully armed. They started shooting and firing teargas everywhere; workers, women, everyone ran for cover. Two women slumped, and access to medical care was delayed.”
Richard Henry, Chief of Staff of Ikwerre LGA, confirmed the incident, adding that “people ran helter-skelter, and there may be casualties as many escaped into the bush.” He criticized the police response, especially given that the issue of council arson was under investigation by the Rivers State Judicial Commission of Inquiry. “It is unfair; we will resist them,” he said.
The Rivers State Police Command responded to the incident, acknowledging its deployment to the council premises. Police spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko explained that the secretariat had been closed after an arson attack, with an ongoing judicial panel investigation into the violence.
According to Iringe-Koko, the police presence was necessary as a group of over 300 individuals reportedly forced entry into the secretariat. “Our officers were there to prevent any breakdown of law and order, and to restore peace by dispersing the crowd to protect the facility,” she explained.
Army Recovers 700,000 Liters of Stolen Fuel, Deactivates 29 Illegal Refineries in Rivers State and Beyond
The Nigerian Army’s 6th Division in Port Harcourt has seized 700,000 liters of stolen petroleum products and dismantled 29 illegal refineries across the Niger Delta in a recent operation. Lt. Col. Danjuma Jonah, the Division’s Public Relations Officer, disclosed that the seizures and arrests took place between October 28 and November 3, 2024, targeting hotspots in Rivers, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Delta States.
During these operations, 24 individuals suspected of oil theft were arrested, 14 boats used in crude oil theft were destroyed, and significant quantities of illegally refined diesel were seized.
In Rivers State, troops intercepted a large boat in Akuku-Toru LGA’s Kula area, carrying 150,000 liters of stolen crude oil. Further, a second boat with 50,000 litres of crude was seized, and three refining sites dismantled, confiscating 20,000 litres of diesel in the process. Another 400,000 liters of diesel were seized at illegal refining sites in Kay and Abesa.
In Bayelsa, the Army deactivated sites at Boma Creek, seizing over 2,500 litres of crude, and in Obughene Creek, recovered 4,500 litres of stolen crude. Another 3,000 litres were seized at West Boma Creek.
In Akwa Ibom, soldiers stopped two vehicles transporting 3,000 liters of diesel hidden in bags. Meanwhile, in Delta State, raids included the interception of a tricycle in Kwale with stolen iron pipes and a storage site in Patani with 40 jerricans of stolen products. In Uro Community, a boat carrying 200 sacks of premium motor spirit was intercepted.
All suspects have been handed over for prosecution, while seized products are being handled according to official protocols, signaling the Army’s commitment to combating oil theft and protecting national resources.
Rivers Police Dismiss Rumors of Government House Altercation
The Rivers State Police Command has firmly dismissed reports of an alleged altercation between military forces reportedly aligned with former Governor Nyesom Wike and current Governor Siminalayi Fubara at the Rivers State Government House in Port Harcourt.
In an official statement on Sunday, Police Public Relations Officer Grace Iringe-Koko clarified that the alleged incident is a fabrication meant to incite fear and tension. “We can confirm that no such altercation took place. This story is a deliberate attempt to cause unrest in Rivers State,” Iringe-Koko said.
The police emphasized that there have been no reports of armed clashes involving Nigerian military personnel in the state and clarified that Governor Fubara had not imposed any curfew or called for a militant security presence.
Iringe-Koko reassured the public that the Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with other security agencies, is maintaining peace across Rivers State. Residents were urged to disregard the rumors and avoid sharing unverified information.
Commissioner of Police Mustapha Bala also reinforced the Command’s commitment to the safety and security of all residents, assuring them that the police are vigilantly on the ground to uphold peace at all times.
Bobrisky Leaves Nigeria After Release from EFCC Custody
Controversial social media personality and crossdresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, has left Nigeria just hours after being released from the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Also Read: Bobrisky arrested over alleged N30 million fraud
In a series of Instagram posts on Monday, Bobrisky announced his departure. In one of the posts, which featured a video, he wrote, “See u soon Nigeria. Dis girl bought a first class ticket 3 times that is over 30 million. Raise bar for dis girl.”
This follows two failed attempts by Bobrisky to leave the country. He was re-arrested last week at Murtala Mohammed International Airport while trying to board a flight to London, just days after his first arrest by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) at the Seme border.
Bobrisky has been under investigation after an audio clip surfaced online, in which he allegedly claimed to have bribed EFCC officers with N15 million. The crossdresser also hinted at receiving special privileges, suggesting he could serve his six-month jail sentence outside Kirikiri prison due to “influential connections.”
Fubara Blames Rivals for Rivers Crisis Over Resource Control
Speaking at the 51st birthday celebration of Apostle Chibuzor Chinyere, General Overseer of Omega Power Ministries Worldwide, in Mbodo, Aluu, near Port Harcourt, Fubara emphasized that the struggle is centered around the state’s wealth. “The reason for this crisis is the control of Rivers State’s resources,” he explained. “These resources belong to you, and we will ensure they are used wisely for the benefit of Rivers people.”
The governor urged the public to continue praying for his administration, acknowledging the challenges but expressing confidence that their support through prayer would help maintain focus on governance. “The devil is always at war to derail those in leadership,” he noted, “but with your prayers, we will not lose focus, and the purpose of governance will be achieved.”
Governor Fubara’s remarks come amid a long-standing political rift with his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, and 27 pro-Wike members of the state House of Assembly. Despite efforts by President Bola Tinubu to mediate in late 2023, the crisis has deepened, particularly after a Federal High Court ruling instructed the Central Bank of Nigeria to halt fund disbursements to Rivers from the Federation Account.
At the event, Fubara praised Apostle Chinyere for his humanitarian efforts and made a N200 million donation toward the church’s TV station project. He highlighted the importance of giving back to the community, noting, “Life is not about taking; it’s about giving. Anyone who only takes will not go far in life.”
Fubara also acknowledged the role of the church in supporting his administration through prayers, adding, “I believe it is through your prayers that we are still standing amidst all the challenges. With your continuous prayers, we will overcome this present crisis.”
In a final gesture of appreciation, he assured the audience that his administration would continue to defend and uplift the people of Rivers State, stating, “We need more power, more strength to protect humanity and make progress in Rivers. I promise you, we will not fail.”
Dangote Refinery Responds to IPMAN and PETROAN Allegations, Discloses Petrol Pricing
After weeks of speculation, the Dangote Refinery has officially disclosed its pricing for Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), or petrol, announcing an ex-depot price of N990 per liter for truck sales and N960 per liter for shipments. This announcement comes amid complaints from the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) and the Petroleum Retail Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) regarding high fuel prices from the refinery.
In a statement by Anthony Chiejina, Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer for Dangote, the refinery emphasized that its pricing aligns with international standards, countering claims from IPMAN and PETROAN that they could land PMS in Nigeria at a cheaper rate. Chiejina argued that such assertions imply that substandard fuel products are being imported into the country, potentially harmful to Nigerians’ health and vehicles.
Also Read IPMAN Confirms Ongoing Negotiations with Dangote Refinery Amid Fuel Pricing Concerns
“We have refrained from engaging in media disputes, but we must respond to recent misinformation being spread by IPMAN, PETROAN, and similar associations,” Chiejina stated. “Claims of cheaper PMS imports only suggest that substandard products are being brought into the country. These products can affect vehicle longevity and safety, and regrettably, the regulator (NMDPRA) lacks laboratory facilities to detect such imports.”
He further explained that Dangote’s pricing strategy was informed by the market benchmark set by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), which recently began selling PMS domestically at N971 per liter for ships and N990 for trucks. In response, Dangote Refinery adjusted its own rates to N960 for shipments and maintained N990 for trucks.
The statement also highlighted concerns over an international trading company renting depot space near the Dangote facility, allegedly with plans to blend and sell substandard products that could undercut Dangote’s higher quality, domestically refined petroleum. Chiejina urged for policies that would protect Nigeria’s emerging refining industry, comparing the situation to how other countries, such as the U.S. and European nations, implement tariffs to protect their domestic industries.
“We remain committed to supplying affordable, high-quality, domestically refined products in Nigeria,” Chiejina concluded, urging the public to dismiss “disinformation” from groups resistant to developing Nigeria’s refining capacity and economic growth.
