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TCN Restores Bulk Power Supply via Ahoada-Yenagoa 132kV Line After Tower Replacement

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Editor
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By Tina Amanda

 

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has restored bulk power supply to Bayelsa State through the Ahoada-Yenagoa 132kV transmission line as of 8:03 AM on November 30, 2024.

This milestone follows the successful reconstruction of collapsed towers and the restringing of vandalized conductors.

The restoration effort, carried out by TCN contractors, included the erection of 20 new towers (Nos. 48-64 and 97-99) destroyed during vandalism incidents on July 29 and August 12, 2024. A final inspection was conducted on November 28, 2024, by TCN engineers led by the Port Harcourt Region General Manager, Engr. Emmanuel Akpa, who confirmed the work met required standards.

Bayelsa State had endured a total blackout since the initial vandalism in July, leading to significant economic losses for residents and a heavy financial toll on TCN for the reconstruction.

To prevent future occurrences, TCN is engaging stakeholders in Bayelsa and Rivers States to launch a comprehensive community engagement program.

The initiative will educate local communities about the consequences of vandalism and theft of power infrastructure. It also includes appointing community representatives to oversee and protect the equipment within their regions, fostering a sense of ownership and accountability.

TCN General Manager of Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, emphasized the importance of public support in combating infrastructure vandalism. “Safeguarding the country’s electricity assets requires collective action to ensure sustainable development,” she said.

The company remains committed to fortifying the national grid and ensuring reliable power delivery across the country.

Ogoni moves to permanently resolve decades of oil exploration conflicts

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Editor
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By Mark Lenu

 

The Ogoni people have again initiated moves that would chart the path to a permanent resolution of over three decades of conflicts with the government and Shell over oil exploration and underdevelopment.

Addressing a congress recently held, the President of MOSOP, Fegalo Nsuke said it’s time to permanently solve the Ogoni problem. noting that the Ogoni people must stand up to defeat both internal and external repression.

According to him, “we launched the struggle in 1990. We are thirty four years into it and the problem was that we were protesting underdevelopment.”

He expressed dismay over the growing number of splinter groups in Ogoni, attributing it to the commercialization of the struggle and therefore urged the Ogoni people to be ready and committed to resolve the problem permanently.

At the end of the deliberations, the Congress resolved as follows:

  1. The Congress demanded compensation for livelihood losses due to decades of oil pollution.
  2. The Congress resolved to set up a resolution committee that would bring everybody including dissenting voices together.
  3. The congress resolved that the leadership of MOOP should set up a conflict resolution committee to address inter and intra communal conflicts in Ogoni.

Dr. Chinyere Nwoga Elected First Female President of PHCCIMA

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Benedicta
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In a historic move, Dr. Chinyere Nwoga has been elected as the first female president of the Port Harcourt Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (PHCCIMA). This milestone comes 67 years after the chamber’s establishment.

Dr. Nwoga was elected during the 2024 Elective Annual General Meeting, which took place in Port Harcourt. Her election marks a significant step for the chamber, reflecting the increasing role of women in leadership positions within the business community.

After her election, Dr. Nwoga expressed her commitment to continuing the work of previous administrations. She emphasized her goal of building on the chamber’s existing legacies.

“I am coming to build on what has been handed over to us and we are going to work as a team, we have outlined our plans and gradually we are going to unveil them. But the bottom line is that at the end of the day, what we need to do is to move this chamber forward and higher than we met it. That’s the commitment we are making today,” she said.

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She also assured that her leadership team would collaborate effectively to sustain the chamber’s growth and success. Additionally, Dr. Nwoga expressed her intention to work with key stakeholders to ensure a conducive environment for businesses to thrive in the state.

In a farewell address, the outgoing president of the chamber, Mike Elechi, reflected on his tenure, acknowledging the support he received from members and past executives.

He highlighted his contributions to the growth of small and medium-scale businesses in the state and the development of various partnerships between the chamber and government agencies. Elechi urged the incoming administration to build on these achievements, ensuring that the chamber continues to progress under the new leadership.

Rivers: ACJMC Trains Police Officers on Ethical Standards and Professionalism

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Editor
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By Tina Amanda

 

The Rivers State Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Council has conducted a one-day sensitization exercise to train police officers on ethical standards and professionalism in the discharge of their duties.

The training, held at the Trans-Amadi Police Division in Port Harcourt, aimed to equip investigating police officers with knowledge of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL) of Rivers State.

Speaking at the event, the Secretary of the Council and Chief Magistrate, Illanye Brown, emphasized the importance of understanding and implementing the updated provisions of the law.

She noted that some officers lack adequate knowledge of the rules governing the ACJL, stating: the sensitization focuses on the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law of Rivers State.

“There are new aspects introduced in the law that we believe officers may not be aware of due to the nature of their work. With the support of the Commissioner of Police, we are sensitizing officers area command by area command to create awareness and ensure compliance.

“It is no longer business as usual, we need to create that awareness you can not give what you do not have.
It is not appropriate for the suspect to be detained for more than forty-eight (48) hours. We have to unlearn certain things we have been used to over the years.

“That’s the essence of this sensitization, sensitize them on those practices that are not in line with the law and tell them the right thing to do.”

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Brown highlighted critical areas, such as the need to avoid detaining suspects for more than 48 hours and adopting practices in line with the law.

The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Trans-Amadi, CSP Primza Jonathan, noted that some of the practices highlighted in the training are already being implemented at the division.

“These constant training sessions are essential. They remind us of the correct procedures in investigations, and we ensure compliance with any observations made by the attached magistrate regarding our processes.”

Participating police officers expressed their gratitude for the training, stating that it deepened their understanding of ethical practices and the legal framework governing their duties.

According to them, they now have a clearer understanding of the proper procedures, from receiving complaints to conducting arrests. Noting they are committed to implementing what they have learned to ensure that criminal justice processes are upheld and cases are not dismissed due to procedural lapses.

The Council reiterated its commitment to continuous training to ensure that law enforcement officers uphold professionalism and adhere strictly to the Administration of Criminal Justice Law.

People of Port Harcourt Urge Government Action Over Rising Costs as Christmas Approaches

By
Benedicta
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As Christmas draws near, the people of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, find themselves experiencing a mix of excitement and anxiety. While the festive season traditionally brings joy and celebration, many residents are also filled with concern due to the skyrocketing prices of essential goods, from food to beverages, and other everyday items.

From the voices of the people, the harsh reality is that things are becoming increasingly difficult for people to afford even the basics, let alone enjoy the usual holiday indulgences. The soaring cost of living is making it harder for many to fully embrace the season’s joy. As a result, residents are voicing their frustrations and pleading for government intervention to help reduce the financial strain on families.

In the bustling Oil Mill Market, where the pulse of Port Harcourt’s commerce can be felt, both vendors and buyers are complain of the effects of rising prices.

One trader shared the tough realities of doing business in these challenging times, saying, “The cost of buying goods is so high now. We have no choice but to sell at higher prices, and as a result, buyers are buying less.”

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Onion sellers, in particular, have been feeling the pinch. One onion vendor lamented, “The price of onions has gone up, and supply is not enough. Sales are slow because many customers can’t afford what we’re selling.”

Shoppers are also deeply affected by the increase in prices, which is putting restrictions on their budgets. Kate, a regular customer at the market, expressed her frustration, explaining, “My salary hasn’t changed, but everything I buy has become so much more expensive. I find myself buying less now, just to get by and meet the basic needs of my family.”

Another shopper, Yinka, shared his worry about his ability to make the holiday special for his children. “This year, it’s hard to buy gifts for them. All I can do is focus on feeding my family and making sure we have enough to get through the season,” he said with concern.

However, the general sentiment is one of urgency for the government to take action. As one resident put it, “We need the government to help make this season more affordable for us. People are struggling, and we can’t enjoy the holidays the way we used to.”

Despite the mounting challenges, many residents of Port Harcourt are still finding reasons to be thankful to God. They are holding on to their faith and cherishing the opportunity to celebrate Christmas, even if it means scaling back their usual traditions

RSG Arraigns 2 Doctors for Manslaughter in Port Harcourt

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Editor
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By Tina Amanda

 

The Rivers State Government, through the Ministry of Justice, has arraigned Dr. Jude Okpani and Dr. Akinlade Isaiah-Tunde on a two-count charge of manslaughter and reckless negligence.

According to the charges read in court, the doctors were alleged to have, on February 2, 2024, at a clinic in Port Harcourt, caused the death of Rebekah Tamunotirukuba-Sekidika. The offense is contrary to Section 325 of the Criminal Code Law of Rivers State 1999.

The prosecution further alleged that the accused failed to administer the required dose of local spinal anesthesia to the deceased and recklessly ruptured her uterus during a medical procedure, leading to her death.

The accused pleaded not guilty to the charges. Their counsel made an oral application for bail, which was not opposed by the prosecution.

The trial judge, Justice Jumbo Stephen, granted bail to the accused persons on the sum of one million naira each, with two sureties. The sureties must be the Chairman and Secretary of the Nigerian Medical Association, Rivers State Chapter.

Justice Stephen also ordered that the sureties must provide two passport photographs, their residential addresses must be verified by court officials, and the accused must deposit their international passports with the court.

The case was adjourned to January 20 and 27, 2025, for trial.

INTELS Empowers Women, Donates to Host Communities

By
Ezinne Okoroafor
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INTELS Nigeria Limited, a leading oil and gas logistics company, has reinforced its commitment to empowering women through its Women Empowerment Project Scheme Synergy (WEPSS). The initiative recently celebrated the graduation of 62 women at the Rosa Volpi Women Development Centre in Onne Port, Rivers State.

The newly trained beneficiaries showcased their tailoring and fashion design skills by creating and donating 500 garments to host communities. This donation, facilitated through the Tilda Goes Green Foundation in Port Harcourt, reflects INTELS’ dedication to supporting local welfare

Launched in 2013, WEPSS equips women with practical tailoring and fashion design skills. Over 11 graduation cycles, the program has trained 2,047 women. With an ambitious goal of empowering 5,000 women in 20 years, WEPSS remains a cornerstone of INTELS’ corporate social responsibility efforts.

INTELS Managing Director Pasquale Fiore emphasized the transformative power of empowering women. “When we invest in women, we invest in agents of change,” he said. Fiore highlighted WEPSS’ growing impact and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to expanding the initiative to reach more women annually.

He also encouraged the graduates to use their skills to thrive in the fashion industry while contributing to community development. Fiore praised the dedication of the WEPSS team, whose efforts have significantly improved the lives of participants.

The graduation ceremony highlighted WEPSS’ focus on individual and community growth. By providing marketable skills and fostering a culture of giving back, INTELS is creating sustainable opportunities in its host communities.

The event also showcased the program’s role in advancing economic independence for women. Many graduates are now positioned to establish their businesses or secure employment in the fashion industry.

Rivers FIDA urges women in domestic violence to speak up, seek help

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Editor
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By Mark Lenu

 

The Rivers State Branch of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) has advised women in domestic violence to speak up and seek help and also urged them to take a walk if the situation threatens their lives so as to avoid being harmed.

The state chairperson of FIDA, Adata Bio-Briggs who said this during a chat with our correspondent also advised spouses to always consider each other, noting that the current economic situation in the country is not friendly.

“I want to encourage women that are in domestic violence to speak up, seek help and if it gets to a situation that threatens their lives, they should please leave. They should take a walk in order to avoid such danger.

Secondly, with the harsh economic situation we are in right now, we need to be considerate of our partners. Spouses need to consider each other as they move on.

“The economy right now is not friendly and we realize that a lot of issues we are having right now are economic related such as non-provision for the partners and children. But that doesn’t mean one shouldn’t provide for his family. Every child needs to be provided for.

So, we are also urging partners not to blame their frustration on each other, and they should not deprive their children of the basic things they need to have. Children need parental care and should be provided for,” she said.

FIDA is the acronym for the Spanish name “Federación Internacional dé Abogadas” which translates to “International Federation of Women Lawyers.” FIDA Nigeria is a Non-Governmental, Non-Profit Organization made up of women lawyers called to the practice of Law in Nigeria The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) was established to promote, protect, and preserve the rights of women and children.

Police Rescue Four Children from Traffickers in Rivers

By
Ezinne Okoroafor
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Police in Rivers State have uncovered a child trafficking ring in Rumukwachi, near Port Harcourt. The operation rescued four children, aged between one and 13.

The breakthrough came after the manager of Alaeze Guest House grew suspicious of a guest, Esther Anthony. Anthony tried to check out with the children without presenting their mother. When the manager refused, Anthony returned with police officers, falsely accusing the manager of child abduction and threatening her with a gun.

Police spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko confirmed the arrests on Monday, December 2. She revealed that the children had been trafficked from Swali Community in Bayelsa State and were meant to be handed over to a nurse, Loveth, who runs a maternity home.

“The children were lodged at the guest house, ready to be trafficked. The manager’s alertness stopped the plan,” Iringe-Koko said. Investigations showed that Anthony had worked with another suspect, Favour, to carry out the crime.

Both suspects have confessed to their roles. The police praised the guest house manager for reporting the suspicious activity, which led to the arrests.

The children have been reunited with their families. The police assured the public that the suspects would face charges once investigations are complete.

This case highlights the importance of community vigilance in fighting child trafficking. Police have urged residents to report any suspicious activities.

The operation is part of ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking in Rivers State. Authorities promised to continue protecting children from exploitation and urged the public to support law enforcement in ensuring community safety.

Rivers United Beats Kano Pillars

By
Divine Eleeh
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Rivers United has regained its position at the top of the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) standings, leapfrogging Remo Stars after securing a hard-fought victory over visiting Kano Pillars. The decisive moment came in the first half, courtesy of Aniekeme Okon’s clinical finish, which proved to be the winning goal.

Also Read:Rivers United Fail To Beat Sunshine Stars

This crucial win propelled Rivers United to the summit of the NPFL table with an impressive 29 points from 15 matches. Meanwhile, their closest rivals, Remo Stars, suffered a setback, losing 2-1 to Niger Tornadoes. This defeat resulted in Remo Stars dropping to second place in the standings, relinquishing their brief tenure at the top spot of the log.

The outcome of these matches has injected a new wave of excitement into the NPFL title race, with Rivers United once again assuming the mantle of league leaders. As the season unfolds, fans can expect intense competition and thrilling encounters between the top contenders.

Remo Stars now trail Rivers United by a three-point margin, with 26 points in their kitty. This shift in the standings has created an intriguing dynamic in the title race.

Meanwhile, Ikorodu City and Heartland FC continued to make waves in the league, with both teams notching impressive victories on their home turf. These wins mark a significant milestone in their steady ascent up the rankings, as they bid to join the elite group of title contenders. With their momentum building, fans can expect Ikorodu City and Heartland FC to pose a formidable challenge to the top teams in the league.

Ikorodu City produced a stunning display, thrashing Akwa United 4-1 to catapult themselves to third place in the standings with an impressive 24 points. This resounding victory marks a significant milestone in Ikorodu City’s campaign, as they continue to push for a top-flight finish.

In another thrilling encounter, Nasarawa United’s Anas Yusuf, the NPFL’s leading scorer, ended his four-match goal drought by scoring in the 45th minute to level the score at 1-1 against Heartland. However, Heartland’s resilience paid off, as they eventually emerged victorious with a 3-2 win. This hard-fought victory propelled Heartland to ninth place in the standings with 20 points.

Meanwhile, other matches in the NPFL produced intriguing results. Bayelsa United traveled to Maiduguri, where they secured a valuable point by holding El Kanemi Warriors to a goalless draw. In another closely contested match, Katsina United edged past Sunshine Stars 1-0 on their home turf, earning a crucial three points in the process.

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