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Pyrex Kyddah’s Lavish Spending Sparks Controversy

Popular Nigerian artist, Pyrex Kyddah, has recently faced significant backlash following his performance at the PH Special event. While his stage presence and musical talent have been subjects of debate, it was his lavish spending on stage that ignited the controversy.

Kyddah’s act of spraying money on the audience, a common practice among Nigerian artists, has drawn criticism from many. Some viewers argue that this behavior is excessive and wasteful, particularly in a country where many people struggle with poverty. They believe that such actions can be perceived as insensitive and disrespectful.

Critics have also questioned the source of Kyddah’s wealth and the potential implications of his extravagant spending. One commenter even suggested that Kyddah’s actions could draw unwanted attention from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). 

Despite the negative feedback, Kyddah appears unfazed. He took to social media to thank his fans and express gratitude for the opportunity to perform at the PH Special event. He also highlighted the enjoyment that Port Harcourt residents derive from such events.

While some fans have defended Kyddah, arguing that his stage performance was entertaining and that critics are merely jealous, the majority of online sentiment remains negative. It remains to be seen how this controversy will impact Kyddah’s career. It serves as a reminder that public figures must be mindful of their actions and the potential impact on their reputation.

WACT Empowers Youths in Rivers State with Paint Production Training

In a commendable display of corporate social responsibility, West Africa Container Terminals (WACT) has taken a bold step towards youth empowerment in its host community, Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area of Rivers State.

The company recently concluded a comprehensive paint production training program that has equipped 20 young individuals with valuable skills for the industry.

Launched five months ago, this initiative aligns with WACT’s broader commitment to enhancing lives and fostering responsibility within the communities it operates.

The program aims to provide participants with practical knowledge and tools for success in the paint production business, and the impact is already evident.

One of the beneficiaries, Kingsley, shared how he has turned his training into an impressive financial opportunity. He said, “Over the years, I have been looking for ways to get this knowledge but through this training, I have been trained on how to produce different kinds of paint.

“I also want to thank WACT for the impact this training has started having on me because I just made my first N300,000 through this paint production training. With this, the society can be a better place.” He plans to expand on his newfound skills by establishing a workshop, employing others, and training them in paint production, thereby spreading the benefits of the program further.


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Another participant expressed gratitude to WACT for providing the opportunity to learn and highlighted how the training challenged traditional gender roles.

“I thought the training was only for men but when I got enrolled, I felt very excited to see ladies in the training room. Through the training, WACT made me believe that even females can paint and produce paint, and I want to thank them for giving everyone this opportunity,’’ she said.

WACT’s Community Relations Manager, Justin Okwuofu, emphasized the company’s commitment to fostering both human and economic development in its host communities.

“Beyond contributing to infrastructural development in the host community, WACT is also interested in the economic growth of the people in its host communities,” he said.

The initiative has also received praise from community leaders. Bara Thompson, the Community Development Chairman of Ogu Community, commended WACT for its various contributions, including this program. He encouraged the trainees to make the most of the opportunity, continuously improving their skills and using them as a sustainable source of income.

Through this initiative, WACT has not only empowered individuals but also set a precedent for corporate engagement that drives meaningful change in society.

Rivers Hoopers Triumph in Basketball League, Eye African Glory

Rivers Hoopers Basketball Club of Port Harcourt has emerged victorious in the recently concluded Nigeria Basketball Men’s Premier League, clinching the title after an impressive 71-54 win over Hoops and Read Basketball Club of Lagos in the finals.

Speaking after their triumph, Head Coach Ogoh Odaudu praised the team’s hard work, balance, and unity, which he credited as the key factors behind their championship run. “We knew there were no small teams in the competition, so we prepared thoroughly,” Odaudu said. “Our target was clear—reach the finals and then push to achieve our ultimate goal. The players’ dedication and determination made this possible.”

The victory marked a back-to-back league win for the Hoopers, solidifying their position as a powerhouse in Nigerian basketball. The team maintained dominance throughout the Atlantic Conference and the Final Eight championship, leaving no doubt about their superiority on the court.

Now, the Rivers Hoopers have their sights set on the Basketball African League (BAL), for which their league win has secured qualification. Coach Odaudu expressed optimism about their prospects in the continental competition, emphasizing the team’s growth and readiness to surpass their previous third-place finish.

“We’ve gained valuable experience from our last outing in the BAL, and we are confident about doing even better this time,” Odaudu said. “The team is more prepared, and we will approach the tournament with a fresh mindset and strategy.”

Despite the excitement, Odaudu acknowledged the need for the players to rest and recharge after a grueling domestic campaign. “It’s been a tough competition that tested our strength, so we’ll take some time off while we await the fixtures for the BAL championship,” he added.

With their recent success and enhanced experience, the Rivers Hoopers are poised to make waves on the African stage, carrying the hopes of Nigerian basketball fans eager to see them conquer the continent.

Fubara Promises To Revamp Creek Road Market, Give PH New Look

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has promised to reconstruct the Creek Road Market in the old Port Harcourt Township into an ultra-modern facility that will afford traders a conducive trading environment, and give the city a new look.

The Governor explained that the decision stems from the commitment to achieve a wholesome implementation of the Urban Renewal Policy of his administration, which puts the people first.
Governor Fubara made the promise when he visited the market on Tuesday to see how trading activities take place within the entire Creek Road and adjoining streets.
He explained that restoring Port Harcourt to its cherished Garden City status will require transforming it into a liveable city that offers a sustainable and equitable urban environment.
That will not be possible, he asserted, if trading activities are not confined to designated places to achieve the desired goal.
Governor Fubara said: “You are aware that some weeks ago, a committee was inaugurated for the redevelopment of Port Harcourt Township.
“Since then, I have been getting a lot of calls from the old boys of Port Harcourt Township that, if we have to do anything, first of all, we need to sort out the issue of market.”
Governor Fubara recalled that when the Creek Road was reconstructed by the immediate past administration, the traders were relocated to No 3 Field temporarily.
But he added that after the road reconstruction work was completed, no deliberate plan was undertaken to return the traders to their regular trading place, neither was the market rebuilt for them.
The Governor noted, “We are aware that when Creek Road was reconstructed, the market was relocated to No 3 Field, and it affected the face of the Town. So, I came here myself with the Commissioner for Housing, Commissioner for Urban Development and Physical Planning, Chairman of the Committee for the Re-urbanization of Port Harcourt Township, and the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), to see for ourselves what we can do immediately.
“I can say here that the first thing we are going to do immediately before we start the cleaning and the redesigning of Port Harcourt Township is to make sure that we give them (traders) a befitting market.
“With that, we can immediately move those people out of those residential areas so we can commence beautifying the town,” he stressed.
Governor Fubara said he feels so sad that Rivers people, and indeed, residents are made to go through such ugly experiences in the course of achieving development.
He stated that since the government is a continuum, his administration will do everything possible to make sure that Creek Road traders are settled in an appropriate and befitting market.

Rivers State Allocation Blockade Sparks CSO Outcry Over Democratic Integrity

The decision to halt the release of Rivers State’s monthly allocations by financial institutions, including the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and Zenith Bank, has drawn sharp criticism from a coalition of civil society organizations (CSOs). Competent Governance for Accountability and Civic Trust (CGACT), leading the charge, has warned that the court order undermines democratic values and poses a significant threat to state autonomy.

Speaking at a press briefing, CGACT’s executive director, Comrade Godwin Erheriene, expressed deep concern over the implications of the judgment. “This decision is not just a legal misstep; it infringes on the fundamental rights of Rivers State citizens and disrupts the delicate balance of federalism enshrined in our constitution,” he said.

Erheriene argued that the ruling contradicts established legal precedents, particularly the landmark case involving former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Lagos State. That case, he noted, reinforced the constitutional principle that states are entitled to their statutory allocations regardless of federal government actions.

“By blocking these allocations, the judgment not only undermines state governance but also challenges the authority of the Supreme Court,” Erheriene emphasized. “This could set a dangerous precedent where lower court decisions override the highest court in the land, destabilizing our legal framework.”

The coalition called on President Bola Tinubu, himself a victim of similar federal overreach during his governorship, to intervene and ensure that the judiciary acts in accordance with constitutional principles. They stressed that Nigeria’s federal system requires a clear separation of powers and respect for state autonomy to function effectively.

Beyond the legal implications, CGACT warned of potential unrest in Rivers State if the matter is not resolved promptly. “This is not just a legal battle; it’s a question of governance and the rights of the people,” Erheriene said. “The federal government must act swiftly to prevent further escalation and protect the democratic values that bind this nation together.”

The group concluded by urging all stakeholders to prioritize dialogue and constitutional adherence, cautioning that the erosion of state rights could lead to broader instability within the federation. They emphasized that the judiciary’s role is crucial in preserving the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy and ensuring justice for all.

Super Eagles Shocking 2-1 Loss to Rwanda

The Nigerian Super Eagles wrapped up their 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group D qualifiers with an unexpected 2-1 loss to Rwanda on Monday. The match, held at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, highlighted the grit and determination of the Rwandan team, who turned the game on its head to snatch a stunning victory from the group leaders.

Despite the disappointing result, Nigeria had already secured qualification for the AFCON 2025 tournament in Morocco, finishing atop the group with 11 points. The Super Eagles’ progress to the continental competition remains intact, though Monday’s performance has sparked concerns about their consistency ahead of the tournament.

The first half saw both teams struggling to convert chances into goals. Nigeria, despite enjoying the lion’s share of possession, failed to break down a resolute Rwandan defense. Several missed opportunities and an overall lack of urgency from the Super Eagles kept the home crowd on edge.

The second half, however, began on a more promising note for the hosts. Samuel Chukwueze, who had been a constant threat down the flank, opened the scoring in the 59th minute with a well-taken goal. His strike sent the stadium into a frenzy and seemed to set the stage for a routine victory for Nigeria.

The joy was short-lived as Rwanda found their rhythm and began to exploit defensive gaps in the Nigerian setup. In the 72nd minute, Aimable Mutinzi equalized for the visitors, silencing the home crowd. Nigeria’s backline, which had looked shaky throughout the qualifiers, failed to deal with the Rwandan attack effectively.

Rwanda sealed their remarkable comeback with a decisive goal from Nshuti in the dying moments of the game. Nshuti, who was later cautioned for time-wasting, emerged as the hero, ensuring Rwanda left Uyo with all three points.

While the Super Eagles’ qualification for AFCON 2025 remains unblemished, the loss has raised questions about the team’s preparedness for the challenges ahead. Defensive lapses, poor finishing, and a lack of cohesion in critical moments were glaring issues in Monday’s game.

Fans and analysts alike are calling for urgent improvements as the team prepares to face tougher opponents in Morocco. The defeat to Rwanda serves as a stark reminder that no team can be underestimated in modern football.

The Super Eagles will need to regroup quickly and address their shortcomings if they hope to make a serious impact at AFCON 2025. For now, though, the shock loss to Rwanda remains a bitter pill to swallow.

DHRD again condemns police brutality, calls for erring officers’ dismissal

By Mark Lenu

 

The Defence For Human Rights And Democracy (DHRD) has again condemned police brutality, harassment, extortion, and torture across the country, especially in Rivers State, adding that a Port Harcourt-based journalist recently escaped death.

DHRD, through its Chairman, Clifford Christopher Solomon urged the police to apologize and foot the medical bills of Sandra Kenneth, a correspondent with a radio station in Port Harcourt.

The statement read: the Defence For Human Rights And Democracy (DHRD) is disturbed over the unrepentant attitude of the Nigeria Police Force, who has taken her negative characteristics of brutality, harassment, extortion, and acts of torture to the zenith.

“In 2020, Nigerian youths trooped out to speak against the notorious activities of the Nigeria police who obviously were acting against the Right Act and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Tagged ‘ENDSARS’.

“Regrettably, the Nigeria police have again resumed these acts of violation of citizens fundamental human rights.

“Just this week, Sandra Kenneth, a correspondent with Today 95.1 FM narrowly escaped death in the hands of some police officers namely: Preye Ironson, Dornubari Kpalap.N. and four others in operation at Rumuaghalu by road 1.

“This notorious act of the Nigeria police all over the nation has caused quantum death, using their guns to rob, harass and those who don’t succumb to their brutal force are shot dead.

“It is disturbing that when this ugly incident happened to Sandra Kenneth, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) SP Grace Iringe Koko, was contacted and she did nothing about it.

“DHRD, therefore, demands the following:
1. That the Rivers State police command should fish these police officers out for prosecution.
2. The Rivers State Police command should foot the medical bills of Sandra Kenneth.
3. The Rivers State Police command should within one week tender a public apology.
4. The Nigeria Police force should begin the dismissing and prosecuting of erring police officers who engage in acts of brutality, harassment, extortion, and torture to serve as a deterrent to the many bad eggs in the force.”

Tompolo Calls for Collective Action as Oil Theft Crisis Escalates in Niger Delta

As Nigeria celebrates an increase in crude oil production to 1.8 million barrels per day, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, has raised alarms over persistent challenges in combating oil theft. The Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited accused some security agencies, particularly the Nigerian Navy, of complicity in the illegal trade during a heated confrontation in Port Harcourt involving a seized vessel.

Tompolo made these revelations while hosting the national leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), led by its president, Mazi Afam Osigwe, at Oporoza in Delta State’s Gbaramatu Kingdom. The NBA delegation visited the region on a fact-finding mission to assess oil theft’s impact on oil-producing communities and the national economy.

Tompolo accused Nigerian Navy personnel of firing shots at members of Tantita Security Services, alongside officials from the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), during an operation. He alleged that his efforts to protect oil pipelines have made him a target of powerful individuals benefitting from the illegal trade. He said, “What we want is for you to support the President of this country and Tantita Security Services. While doing this work, we are stepping on a lot of toes—big players in Lagos and Abuja. Most times, Tantita Security has confrontations with the Navy and others.”

He appealed to Nigerians and government security agencies to rally behind President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, warning that unchecked oil theft could deepen the country’s financial woes. In response, NBA President Osigwe called for collective efforts to combat oil theft, emphasizing its devastating impact on Nigeria’s economy and governance. He said, “Our fates are tied together. We have a common interest in seeing the Nigerian economy work and the commonwealth protected.”

Osigwe highlighted Tantita Security’s achievements in reducing pipeline vandalism and reiterated the NBA’s commitment to addressing oil theft’s legal and systemic challenges. The Pere of Gbaramatu Kingdom, His Majesty Oboro-Gbaraun II, also voiced concerns about the neglect of oil-producing communities. He lamented, “The presence of government is far from us. We feed the coffers of this country, but we need the government to do the needful for us to also reciprocate.”

The monarch advocated for the establishment of a magistrate court in the region and urged legal practitioners to visit the area for a first-hand understanding of cases affecting the community. As Nigeria eyes an oil production target of two million barrels per day by December, stakeholders like Tompolo, Tantita Security, and the NBA are urging unified action to curb oil theft, ensure justice, and secure the nation’s economic future.

Port Harcourt Refinery Delays: Nigeria’s Energy Crisis Deepens

The prolonged delay in completing the Port Harcourt refinery is more than a missed deadline—it highlights a persistent issue of inefficiency in Nigeria’s critical infrastructure projects. Two months past the September 2024 completion target, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) admits the refinery remains far from operational.

Olufemi Soneye, NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, attributed the delays to unforeseen risks and challenges that disrupted the rehabilitation process. Though work has resumed and the commissioning of critical equipment is underway, the company remains silent on a new completion date.

This uncertainty fuels public frustration. Nigerians hoped the refinery would ease the burden of rising fuel prices by reducing reliance on costly imports. Instead, the country continues to spend billions importing petroleum products, with the NNPC and marketers bringing in over two billion liters of petrol between October and November 2024.

The implications are far-reaching. High fuel prices have crippled businesses, strained household incomes, and deepened poverty. Many Nigerians wonder why a project financed by a $1.5 billion loan secured in 2021 is still stalled after seven missed deadlines.

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Beyond economic concerns, the delay exposes a lack of accountability in managing public resources. Critics argue that the government’s approach to critical projects often prioritizes short-term fixes over sustainable solutions. Legal advocate Femi Falana and other stakeholders have repeatedly demanded transparency from the NNPC, yet answers remain elusive.

Meanwhile, local refiners call for policy changes. They argue that limiting import licenses would encourage investment in domestic refining, boosting local capacity and creating jobs. The current reliance on imports, they say, undermines efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s energy independence.

The Port Harcourt refinery’s rehabilitation was supposed to symbolize progress, a step toward self-reliance in a country with vast oil reserves. Instead, it mirrors systemic failures in project execution, where bureaucracy, mismanagement, and unclear timelines dominate.

For ordinary Nigerians, the delay is more than a technical setback—it’s a reflection of governance challenges. Families continue to pay the price, enduring high transportation costs and reduced purchasing power. Small businesses struggle to survive as operational expenses soar.

As commissioning activities progress, the government must address the root causes of these delays. Transparent communication, accountability, and a commitment to meeting deadlines are essential. The Port Harcourt refinery should not be another tale of wasted potential but a catalyst for real change in Nigeria’s energy sector.

Until then, Nigerians remain skeptical, waiting for the day promises turn into tangible results. The question lingers: how many more missed deadlines will it take to realize the refinery’s completion?

Pro-Wike Lawmakers Task Julius Berger On Repair Of Collapsed Roads In Rivers

The Pro-Wike Rivers State House of Assembly members have urged Julius Berger, to commence an immediate remedial repair on collapsed sections of alternative routes to the Port Harcourt ring-road.

The lawmakers gave this directive at their sitting on Monday, where they expressed worry over the deplorable state of most of the alternative routes.

Expressing their readiness to follow up the request, the house also resolved to maintain synergy with the contracting firm.

They expressed the belief that the synergy would ensure the execution of the Port Harcourt ring-road and that the collapsed sections of the designated alternative routes are fixed.

Martins Wachukwu, the special assistant on media to the Pro-Wike State Assembly Speaker, Rt. Hon Martin Amaewhule, disclosed this in a release.

Also, the lawmakers deliberated on the burning down of the hallowed Chamber of the House on the 29th of October, 2023 by some alleged arsonists.

The attention of the lawmakers was drawn to the issue by the leader, Mr. Major Jack. According to the statement, “Retrospecting on the mindless burning down of the hallowed Chamber of the Rivers State House of Assembly 386 days ago, the State House of Assembly, on Monday, at its 68th Legislative Sitting, again decried the nihilistic burning down of its hallowed Chamber, the attack on the official residence of the Speaker, and the brazen demolition of the Assembly Complex.

“Commenting, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule said it has been 386 days since the heartless burning down of the hallowed Chamber of the House, yet no conviction has been made.

“It has been 341 days since governor Siminialayi Fubara supervised the demolition of the Assembly Complex on the 13th of December, 2023, without the knowledge and approval of the House; it’s a sad reminder of the brutal attacks on the Legislature, which is the bastion of democracy.

“The House has resolved to set aside every 29th of October as a solemn day to commemorate all the iniquitous, scandalous and malicious attacks on the Rivers State House of Assembly by governor Fubara.”

 

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