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Rivers Police Warn Against Night Travel on Key Roads Amid Rising Kidnappings

By
Benedicta
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As the festive season draws near, the Rivers State Police Command has issued a strong advisory against traveling at night along the Elele-Omerelu and Isiokpo-Elele Roads in Ikwerre Local Government Area. This warning comes in response to the increasing incidences of kidnappings and other criminal activities on these routes.

The State Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Mustapha, delivered the caution during a press briefing in Port Harcourt on Wednesday.

Mustapha assured the public that enhanced security measures have been implemented to address the situation. He stated, “We have carried out a comprehensive security deployment along the roads from Airport Roundabout Omagwa to Isiokpo, Elele, and extending to the boundary with Imo, and from Elele to Omoku, Elele-Alumini. By the grace of God, these areas are now fortified.”

He also urged travelers to exercise caution, particularly during late hours. “We are urging road users to limit their movements during the night hours. Traveling after midnight is extremely risky. Our goal is to make these roads safer for everyone throughout the holiday season and beyond,” he said.

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To reinforce these efforts, the police command has engaged local vigilante groups to find lasting solutions to the security challenges. Mustapha noted that some criminal activities have been linked to former members of these vigilante groups, specifically the Onelga Security Peace Advisory Committee (OSPAC).

“We identified through our discussions with the vigilante leaders that some of these criminal activities are perpetrated by individuals who once belonged to OSPAC. These are not just ordinary criminals but former members of the same organization who have turned to criminality. They take advantage of our weakened presence to carry out their activities,” Mustapha disclosed.

He added, “The leadership of OSPAC has assured us they are committed to helping us identify and arrest these culprits. They have pledged their support in flushing out these bad elements from their ranks.”

This warning follows a resurgence of criminal activity along these roads, despite previous security interventions.

 

Wikematics And Loyalists Set To Shut Down Rivers For Wike’s Birthday

By
Benedicta
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A grand celebration is being organized by loyalists, associates, and friends of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Nyesom Wike, to commemorate his birthday in Rivers State, particularly in Port Harcourt, the capital.

Political allies and loyalists of Wike, from both within and outside the country, are expected to converge in Rivers State for the festivities. The celebration will feature various events across the state, coordinated by new groups and movements such as the NEW Associates, Wikematic Youths, Wikematic Women, and the Rivers Ijaw Progressive Congress (RIPCO). These groups are set to hold parades at multiple venues on Friday.

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Senator George Thompson Sekibo, Convener of the NEW Associates, highlighted the enthusiasm surrounding the event. “The forthcoming birthday is unique in the sense that despite all efforts of the betrayers, the minister has been able to keep our political family in Rivers intact. He remains the indisputable leader of Rivers politics,” Sekibo stated.

The celebration will commence with a public lecture titled “Pragmatic Strides of a Visionary Leader and Contemporary Issues of Society”. Sekibo emphasized that the event would showcase Wike’s achievements throughout his political career at both state and national levels. “He has survived all the machinations of the devil, and our leader, by the grace of God, continues to wax strong. We are calling on the numerous supporters of our leader to attend the event,” he added.

The occasion will attract high-profile guests, including the Senate President, who will serve as the Special Guest of Honour, a former President of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), OCJ Okocha, as Special Guest of Honour and Guest Lecturer, and Prof. Julius Ihonvbere. According to Sekibo, the event will celebrate Wike’s resilience and his enduring political influence.

WUMSY CARES FOUNDATION Empowers Over 20 Women in Port Harcourt

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Editor
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By Tina Amanda

 

 

In alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3, 4, and 5, WUMSY CARES FOUNDATION, a non-governmental organization, has empowered women in Rivers State through skill acquisition and financial support.

The initiative, launched at Ozuboko, Port Harcourt, was spearheaded by the foundation’s founder, Stephanie Yinkere, who emphasized the critical role women play in families and society.

Yinkere pointed out the importance of economic empowerment in fostering financial independence for women.

“Today, we gather to celebrate the resilience and determination of women in our community. We recognize the significant contributions they make to their families and society at large.

“As part of our commitment to empowering women, we are providing financial empowerment to ten (10) deserving women, who will receive support to enhance their economic independence.

“Over 20 participants were trained in soap making and gele (headgear) tying, equipping them with skills to improve their socio-economic status.

“This program is a testament to our foundation’s dedication to promoting women’s empowerment, education, and economic independence. We are proud to have empowered individuals and communities through skills training and financial literacy, which is at the heart of what we do.”

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She urged participants to fully utilize the opportunity, gain confidence, and become change-makers in their communities.

“Together, let us celebrate the power of women and work towards creating a more equitable and just society for all.”

Yinkere also expressed gratitude to the foundation’s team, partners, donors, and volunteers who contributed to the program’s success.

Some beneficiaries of the WUMSY CARES FOUNDATION empowerment program expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to gain new skills and receive financial assistance aimed at fostering economic independence.

One of the beneficiaries remarked, “I am truly grateful to WUMSY CARES FOUNDATION for this life-changing opportunity. The skills I have learned will enable me to start a small business and support my family.”

Another beneficiary said, “The financial assistance is a huge relief for me. It will help me kickstart my journey towards economic independence and give me the confidence to create a better future.”

The empowerment program serves as a significant step in improving the lives of women in the community, reaffirming WUMSY CARES FOUNDATION’s commitment to sustainable development and gender equality

OSPAC assures Christmas travellers of adequate security in ONELGA

By
Editor
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By Mark Lenu

 

 

The ONELGA Security Peace and Advisory Committee (OSPAC) has assured the travellers of Christmas festivity of adequate security before, during and after Christmas in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State.

Speaking with our correspondent, the Secretary-General of OSPAC, Eze Gift Ohia said the security outfit had stepped up security measures to ensure the safety of lives and properties in ONELGA.

“We have put in place more security measures to tighten security in ONELGA, especially during the Christmas season.

“All the entry and exit points in ONELGA now have adequate personnel manning those places with thorough stop and search going on. We have intensified patrols within ONELGA, including a show of force to make sure no criminal elements take us unaware.

The border route between ONELGA and Elele which is called Omoku – Elele – Port Harcourt Road has received more security attention from us because of the kidnap activities on that road. “We have also expanded our security measures to the neighboring Emohua LGA where we recently addressed a kidnap incident.

“So, we are fully assuring the people of ONELGA and the general public of adequate security in ONELGA as we urge those who wish to spend their Christmas in ONELGA to feel free,” Ohia said.

The OSPAC secretary general also expressed confidence in the ability of his Commandant, Comrade Emeka Onyeocha, adding that his noncompromising stance on security matters had helped strengthen security in ONELGA and its environs.

Eyimba Beats Rivers United to Brown Ideye Signing

By
Divine Eleeh
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Rivers United has suffered a significant blow in the transfer market, losing out on their summer target, Brown Ideye, to arch-rivals Enyimba of Aba. The Nigerian striker, who was part of the 2013 AFCON-winning team, has penned a deal with the nine-time Nigerian champions, Enyimba, which will keep him at the club until the end of the 2024/25 season.

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This transfer is a major coup for Enyimba, who are looking to bolster their squad for the remainder of the season. Ideye, with his wealth of experience and goal-scoring prowess, is expected to make an immediate impact at the club. His signing is also a testament to Enyimba’s ambition and commitment to competing at the highest level .

For Rivers United, however, the loss of Ideye is a significant setback. The club had been keen to sign the striker, but ultimately lost out to their rivals. This transfer saga highlights the intense competition and rivalry between Nigerian clubs, particularly between Rivers United and Enyimba

Sporting Director of the People’s Elephant and ex-international, Ifeanyi Ekwueme, confirmed this to Pressmen on Tuesday.

“Yes, the talks have been going on for a while and we completed it yesterday,”

“He will be with us until the end of the season and we believe he will bolster our team’s attack as we compete in the league and the continent.”

After a two-year hiatus from professional football, 36-year-old Nigerian striker Brown Ideye is set to make a remarkable return to the Nigerian top flight, signing with nine-time league champions Enyimba. This move marks Ideye’s comeback to the domestic scene, 17 years after he departed Ocean Boys in 2006 to pursue opportunities abroad.

Ideye’s decision to join Enyimba is a significant development, particularly given his advanced age and the fact that he has been without a club since leaving Kuwaiti side Al Yarmouk in 2022. However, Ideye’s experience and goal-scoring prowess make him an attractive addition to Enyimba’s squad.

Interestingly, Ideye’s return to the Nigerian top flight follows in the footsteps of his former international teammates Ahmed Musa and Abdullahi Shehu, who currently play for Kano Pillars. Ideye’s move to Enyimba also comes after a proposed transfer to Rivers United collapsed in October.

With Ideye on board, Enyimba will be looking to bolster their chances of success in both domestic and continental competitions. The club has two crucial matches on the horizon, starting with a rescheduled NPFL game against Sunshine Stars on Wednesday, followed by a trip to Maputo, Mozambique for their third group game in the CAF Confederation Cup against Black Bulls.

Enyimba Sporting Director, Ifeanyi Ekwueme, has shed light on the club’s successful pursuit of 2013 AFCON winner Brown Ideye, revealing the influence and negotiations that ultimately led to the striker’s signing. Ekwueme confirmed that Ideye has joined the nine-time Nigerian champions on a short-term deal, which will keep him at the club until the end of the 2024/25 season.

The signing of Ideye is a significant coup for Enyimba, particularly given that the striker was previously linked with a move to Rivers United. According to Ekwueme, the club is hopeful that Ideye’s arrival will help address their goal-scoring woes, which have been a concern for the team in recent times.

Moreover, Ekwueme believes that Ideye’s presence will have a positive impact on the club’s young players, providing them with a valuable opportunity to learn from an experienced and accomplished striker. With Ideye’s wealth of knowledge and expertise, Enyimba’s young players will be able to tap into his insights and guidance, which could help accelerate their development and improve the team’s overall performance.

The signing of Ideye is a clear indication of Enyimba’s ambition and commitment to competing at the highest level. With the striker’s arrival, the club will be looking to make a strong push for success in the remaining months of the season.

Emmanuella and Success Depart Mark Angel Comedy Amid Controversy

By
Benedicta
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Teen comedy sensations Emmanuella and Success have officially ended their professional association with Mark Angel Comedy.

The split comes in the wake of a controversy that began when Denilson Igwe, a former member of the comedy crew, accused Mark Angel of financial exploitation during a viral podcast in August.

Mark Angel, the founder and lead star of the comedy platform, addressed the development during a live TikTok session on Tuesday. He explained that the decision was necessitated by his growing workload.

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“I no longer manage Emmanuella and Success. They are now being managed by a professional agency because I’m too busy to manage them. But I still work with them,” Mark Angel clarified during the session.

The controversy surrounding the group has drawn significant attention, especially following Denilson Igwe’s public statements about financial mismanagement and alleged hoarding of skit revenues.

This marks a new chapter for the young comedy stars, now under new management, while Mark Angel continues to focus on his expanding commitments.

Notorious Kidnappers Arrested In Ikwerre LGA

By
Benedicta
-

Ikwerre Local Government Area has achieved a significant milestone in its fight against crime, particularly kidnapping, through the combined efforts of residents, the OSPAC vigilante group, and the Anti-Cultism Police Unit.

Chief Hon. Amb. Israel Abosi, the Executive Chairman of Ikwerre LGA and traditional leader Eze Omekwa Ali 1 of Ipo, highlighted this achievement during a public address on December 10th, stressing the importance of unity in tackling criminal activities.

Over the past month, authorities in the region have intensified efforts to dismantle kidnapping operations along the Elele/Isiokpo highway. A decisive breakthrough came after a series of strategic meetings over the last three days.

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The collaboration between the Anti-Cultism Police Unit, led by SP Emekekwue Nonso, OSPAC’s Elele Command, and local community members resulted in the apprehension of several notorious kidnappers. These criminals had been operating from hideouts near the Elele prison farm, where they held their victims.

In his speech, Hon. Abosi highlighted the pivotal role of local intelligence in the operation, pointing to the recent arrest of five kidnappers connected to a hijacking incident. He assured the public that the government remains steadfast in its commitment to improving security, including infrastructure projects such as road expansions to reduce hiding places for criminals.

Hon. Abosi also commended the synergy between law enforcement agencies, OSPAC, and the community, reiterating his administration’s support for their efforts and its zero-tolerance stance on crime. The coordinated approach, he stated, emphasizes the collective resolve to ensure safety and peace for all residents in Ikwerre LGA.

16 Days of Activism: A Call to Action to End Gender-Based Violence – CSO

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Editor
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By Tina Amanda

 

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence concluded on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, with a call for sustained efforts to combat violence against women.

Michael Lenee Gbarale, Executive Director of the Rainbow Watch and Development Centre, in a speech to mark the end of the Activism Week in Port Harcourt, emphasized the importance of sustained efforts beyond the global campaign.

Gbarale highlighted the urgent need to address gender-based violence as a societal menace, noting that its impact transcends personal boundaries, affecting individuals of all ages, races, and economic statuses.

He described the ripple effects of such violence on families and communities, emphasizing that ending it requires collective action.

Reflecting on the campaign, Gbarale noted that his organization actively engaged in impactful initiatives throughout the 16 days, gaining key insights that shaped their advocacy:

“Raising awareness about the various forms of violence against women is crucial. Understanding these issues empowers communities to take action.

“Proactively addressing harmful norms and behaviors through education and dialogue can help prevent violence before it occurs.

“Survivors of violence need comprehensive support, including legal aid, healthcare, and emotional assistance. Building and ensuring access to such systems is vital.

“Grassroots initiatives play a critical role in driving change. Local community efforts have demonstrated that collective action yields tangible results.

The fight against gender-based violence is a shared responsibility. Men must join women in challenging misogyny and promoting respect and equality.

Gbarale urged stakeholders and the public to sustain the momentum beyond the campaign, advocating for continuous engagement in spreading awareness, supporting local initiatives, and fostering a culture of safety and respect.

“As this campaign concludes, let us remember that the end of violence against women requires persistent advocacy and united action. Together, we can create a future where everyone feels safe and valued,” he said.

The 16 Days of Activism has served as a reminder of the urgent need for ongoing efforts to address gender-based violence and build a society rooted in equality and justice.

FIDA Rivers Elects New Leadership, Tamunoibiueme Jim-George Emerges Chairperson

By
Editor
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By Tina Amanda

 

The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Rivers State Branch successfully concluded its 2024 Triennial General Meeting, with Tamunoibiueme Jim-George emerging as the new Chairperson unopposed.

Other members of the newly elected executive team include: Okorite Kelvin Yobo – Secretary, Rachel Princewil – Publicity Secretary, Sotonye Kelechi Nwuzi – Assistant Publicity Secretary, Tosan Jaja – Welfare, Oluchi Ofoegbu – Financial Secretary

In her inaugural speech, Tamunoibiueme Jim-George promised to build on the existing legacy of FIDA Rivers. She emphasized her commitment to advocating for the rights of the vulnerable, especially women and children.

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“I see this as a call to greater duty, I am passionate about protecting the rights of the voiceless in society. Since becoming a lawyer, I have worked tirelessly to ensure their rights are upheld.

“Today my colleagues found me worthy to lead from the front as Chairperson of FIDA Rivers. I want to improve on the legacy of the immediate past administration where I served as the Vice Chairman.

“Under my leadership, we will strengthen collaboration with the government to enhance the functionality of the Ministry of Social Welfare and ensure it serves the homeless, abused, and hungry.”

She also urged members of FIDA Rivers to actively support her administration in achieving greater heights.

“I call on my sisters in the association to join me at the driver’s seat. Together, we can move FIDA Rivers to greater heights. Just last week, FIDA Nigeria recognized us as the second-best branch in the country. Our goal is to take the top spot.”

Felicia Tubolayeofori, Chairperson of the Electoral Committee, encouraged the new executives to build on the foundations laid by past administrations.

“FIDA has a rich history, with notable pioneers like Justice Mary Odili and Justice Thompson, amongst others. Each administration has advanced the association, and I am confident this team will do the same under the passionate leadership of Tamunoibiueme Jim-George,” Tubolayeofori stated.

The immediate past Chairperson, Adata Bio-Briggs, pledged her continued support for the new administration. She expressed confidence in the new leadership’s ability to further the association’s mission of protecting the rights of women and children in Rivers State.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from all members to uphold the ideals of FIDA and continue championing the cause of justice and equality

Experts in Rivers Tackle Climate Change Impact on Agriculture

By
Benedicta
-

Agriculture and environmental professionals concluded a four-day training organized by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) with a renewed commitment to addressing the challenges climate change poses to agriculture.

The training, held under the ‘SUSTAIN International’ initiative in Port Harcourt, focused on equipping participants with strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change on farming, such as adopting climate-resilient seeds and technologies.

The workshop highlighted the importance of applying newly acquired skills in farm projects across Nigeria to benefit grassroots farmers. Led by experts from IFAD and other international organizations, the training centered on the Social, Environmental, and Climate Assessment Programme (SECAP), which governs all IFAD-supported agricultural projects in the country.

Participants included professionals from IFAD projects such as LIFE-ND, VCDP, and SAPZ, along with representatives from state and federal government agencies, environmental experts, and other stakeholders.

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They were trained to anticipate challenges such as flooding, unseasonal rains, and drought, and to develop solutions, including fabricating technologies to combat these issues. The training also emphasized the importance of stakeholder engagement, highlighting power dynamics and the need for updated data to ensure effective project implementation.

Experts proposed forming a SECAP community of practice to foster continuous learning, experience-sharing, and peer support across IFAD programs globally. They also resolved to integrate SECAP standards into their respective projects, ensuring compliance with social, environmental, and climate requirements. Efforts will be made to extend these practices to state-level decision-makers and farmer organizations for widespread adoption.

Facilitator and IFAD consultant Priscilla Achakpa explained the training’s objectives, emphasizing the importance of understanding SECAP’s role in various project components. She noted that the monitoring and evaluation of IFAD projects would be aligned with the SECAP training module.

The initiative, which is part of a global exercise spanning 59 countries in Africa and Oceania, was conducted in two cohorts—policy and decision-makers in one, and professionals handling implementation in the other. The program reflects IFAD’s commitment to fostering sustainable agricultural practices to combat climate change worldwide.

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