A former member of the House of Representatives and member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa State, Hon. Israel Sunny-Goli, has revealed the alleged reason the immediate past Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva, is strongly backing the #EndBadGovernment protest in the state.
TVN earlier reported that the State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, on Monday alleged that desperate politicians who lost the last governorship election are plotting to use the #EndBadGovernance protest to cause mayhem in the state.
Meanwhile, in his reaction, Timipre Sylva, who denied the allegations, described the claims by Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri that he is supporting the hardship protest as shocking, insensitive, and divisive.
However, the APC stalwart, in a statement sent to TVN on Wednesday, said: “It is understandable that Sylva is still reeling from his loss at the polls in the 2023 governorship election, as well as the Election Petition Tribunal and the Court of Appeal, where his attempts to overturn the mandate freely given to His Excellency, Sen. Douye Diri, failed woefully.”
However, using that as an excuse to pit the people against President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government on the grounds that he did not receive the president’s support is unstatesmanlike. Statesmen don’t behave in such a manner.
The statement reads: “I read the statement personally signed by the former governor of Bayelsa State and the immediate past Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva. In it, he once again desperately but futilely attempted to extricate himself from the web of controversy surrounding his planned protest against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
“Let me begin by expressing my utter disappointment at the choice of words used by a supposed statesman in the above-captioned statement. It is indeed a shame that he could be so indecorous. However, in fairness to him, defending the indefensible can befuddle the mind.
“It is common knowledge that the former minister had planned to bring about destabilization in the state and stir the people to move against the administration of President Bola Tinubu. He need not deny this.
“Unfortunately for him and his foot-soldiers, their heinous plan was exposed, throwing them into a state of confusion and desperation.
“In Sylva’s statement, he denied knowing a certain Ebideke Atuwo, whom he attempted to link to the current Minister of Petroleum Resources, Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri. This is a clear act of desperation on his part, as it is common knowledge that the said Atuwo is Sylva’s associate.
“For emphasis, Minister Lokpobiri remains the best minister from Bayelsa State to date. He has demonstrated the best intentions for the nation and Bayelsa State. His impact during one year in office as minister is inspiring and commendable.
“The minister has relentlessly been in touch with critical stakeholders across the state since the idea of the hunger-inspired protest was muted, prevailing on them to pacify their people and give the Tinubu administration ample time to turn the tide around.
“Sylva must now eat humble pie and accept the fact that he has been rejected by the people of Bayelsa State. The Bayelsa State APC can no longer continue to sail with him in his rudderless leadership. I advise him to take a bow and leave the stage now so that we can reposition our great party and move it forward.”
Why Sylva is backing EndBadGovernment proposed protest – APC Stalwart
Why Sylva is backing EndBadGovernment proposed protest – APC Stalwart
Why Sylva is backing EndBadGovernment proposed protest – APC Stalwart
A former member of the House of Representatives and member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa State, Hon. Israel Sunny-Goli, has revealed the alleged reason the immediate past Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva, is strongly backing the #EndBadGovernment protest in the state.
TVN earlier reported that the State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, on Monday alleged that desperate politicians who lost the last governorship election are plotting to use the #EndBadGovernance protest to cause mayhem in the state.
Meanwhile, in his reaction, Timipre Sylva, who denied the allegations, described the claims by Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri that he is supporting the hardship protest as shocking, insensitive, and divisive.
However, the APC stalwart, in a statement sent to TVN on Wednesday, said: “It is understandable that Sylva is still reeling from his loss at the polls in the 2023 governorship election, as well as the Election Petition Tribunal and the Court of Appeal, where his attempts to overturn the mandate freely given to His Excellency, Sen. Douye Diri, failed woefully.”
However, using that as an excuse to pit the people against President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government on the grounds that he did not receive the president’s support is unstatesmanlike. Statesmen don’t behave in such a manner.
The statement reads: “I read the statement personally signed by the former governor of Bayelsa State and the immediate past Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva. In it, he once again desperately but futilely attempted to extricate himself from the web of controversy surrounding his planned protest against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
“Let me begin by expressing my utter disappointment at the choice of words used by a supposed statesman in the above-captioned statement. It is indeed a shame that he could be so indecorous. However, in fairness to him, defending the indefensible can befuddle the mind.
“It is common knowledge that the former minister had planned to bring about destabilization in the state and stir the people to move against the administration of President Bola Tinubu. He need not deny this.
“Unfortunately for him and his foot-soldiers, their heinous plan was exposed, throwing them into a state of confusion and desperation.
“In Sylva’s statement, he denied knowing a certain Ebideke Atuwo, whom he attempted to link to the current Minister of Petroleum Resources, Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri. This is a clear act of desperation on his part, as it is common knowledge that the said Atuwo is Sylva’s associate.
“For emphasis, Minister Lokpobiri remains the best minister from Bayelsa State to date. He has demonstrated the best intentions for the nation and Bayelsa State. His impact during one year in office as minister is inspiring and commendable.
“The minister has relentlessly been in touch with critical stakeholders across the state since the idea of the hunger-inspired protest was muted, prevailing on them to pacify their people and give the Tinubu administration ample time to turn the tide around.
“Sylva must now eat humble pie and accept the fact that he has been rejected by the people of Bayelsa State. The Bayelsa State APC can no longer continue to sail with him in his rudderless leadership. I advise him to take a bow and leave the stage now so that we can reposition our great party and move it forward.”
Why Sylva is backing EndBadGovernment proposed protest – APC Stalwart
Onyeka Onwenu was a gift to her generation, says Obaseki
The Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has expressed sadness over the death of music icon Onyeka Onwenu, describing her as a gift to her generation.
Onwenu was said to have died on Tuesday night at Reddington Hospital in Lagos after collapsing at the birthday party of Stella Okoli.
In a press statement on Tuesday, the governor described the late singer as “one of Nigeria’s most versatile music exports.”
“Onwenu was a gift to her generation—sonorous, enigmatic, and enchanting. Hers was a gift well deserving as she serenaded all with her voice, soothing both the old and the young with melodious, evergreen tunes.
“Onwenu performed excellently as a conscious musician, lacing her music with messages for social revival.
“She wore many hats elegantly as a soulful singer, fierce journalist, and conscientious social crusader. Her desire for a better Nigeria was evident in the passion she infused into the many avenues she used to advocate for a more prosperous nation.
“It is sad that we lost her at a time when we needed role models like her to inspire Nigerian youths, who would have benefited from her experience and insights garnered as an active figure in various aspects of the Nigerian experience.
“We will miss her elegance, candour, and infectious charm. I commiserate with the Onwenu family, friends, and associates and pray that God will grant them the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” he added.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from According.
Contact: [email protected]
Iwuanyanwu’s demise: More tears, tributes pour in for late Ohaneze Ndigbo leader
The family of the late President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Engr. Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Iwuanyanwu, and the entire Umuohii Atta in Ikeduru LGA, Imo State, have begun to receive more condolences as groups and personalities from all walks of life thronged the residence of the late patriarch to commiserate with the family.
Among the callers was the Senator representing Owerri Senatorial District, Sen. Ezenwa Onyewuchi, who described Iwuanyanwu as one of the patriarchs of the Igbo nation who sacrificed most of his lifetime fighting the Igbo cause.
He said that his demise has created an indelible vacuum both in the national political sphere and in the Southeast region.
In his own tribute, the Deputy Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly, Amara Chyna Iwuanyanwu, said that the demise of the late President General is a monumental loss to the people of Ndigbo in particular and the Nigerian nation in general.
Paying his own tribute, the gubernatorial candidate of the Labour Party in the November 11, 2023, Imo Governorship Election, Sen. Nneji Athan Achonu, described the late President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo as a dedicated father who bore the plight of Ndigbo at heart.
He said that he had the opportunity to visit him at the hospital, not knowing that it would be the last time he would see him, and maintained that the departure of the late chief marks the end of an era.
Senator Achonu hinted that the efforts of the late Iwuanyanwu towards the release of Nnamdi Kanu demonstrated his unwavering commitment to justice and his people.
His words: “As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate a life filled with extraordinary achievements and unwavering commitment to the Igbo nation and Nigeria as a whole. As the president of Ohaneze Ndigbo, he was a formidable force in advocating for the rights and interests of the Igbo nation. His leadership was marked by wisdom and an unrelenting pursuit of justice for Ndigbo.”
In the same vein, an Igbo social-cultural organization under the aegis of Umunna Lekki Association (ULA) has also expressed shock over the death of the sitting leader of Ohaneze Ndigbo.
In a press statement issued to journalists, the President General of the association, Chief Michael Onuoha, described the late Chief Iwuanyanwu as an epitome of Igbo renaissance.
He noted that Chief Iwuanyanwu’s leadership of the Apex Igbo Organization has brought many benefits to the people of Ndigbo who needed a courageous and outstanding leader like him, especially during this challenging political period.
“We, as Umunna Lekki Association, are saddened by the news of the passing of our dear father, a symbol of love and compassion, a true patriot and leader of Ndigbo, as well as a committed Nigerian. We are, however, consoled by the fact that he lived a worthy life with an outstanding legacy of achievements in his effort to rebuild the Igbo nation, as well as his contributions to the greatness of Nigeria,” the release stated.
In their own tribute, the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Imo State chapter, described Iwuanyanwu as a lifelong champion of the Igbo cause through his steadfast commitment to the growth of the Igbo tribe and his tireless efforts to promote the value of nationalism.
They further stated that he was a man of many parts—a politician, businessman, inventor, and sportsman—who has touched the lives of many through his philanthropic gestures.
The Institute informed that the late Chief Iwuanyanwu was a dedicated fellow of NIPR and a shining example of excellence in public relations practice, also advocating for the development of the profession.
Iwuanyanwu’s demise: More tears, tributes pour in for late Ohaneze Ndigbo leader
Tinubu Mourns Queen of Songs, Onyeka Onwenu
President Bola Tinubu has extended his profound condolences to the family of the late singer, songwriter, actor, journalist, activist, and politician, Ms. Onyeka Onwenu.
Tinubu conveyed his condolences through a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, titled ‘President Tinubu Mourns Iconic Artiste, Onyeka Onwenu.’
Onwenu, aged 72, was said to have died on Tuesday night at Reddington Hospital in Lagos after collapsing at the birthday party of the CEO of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, Mrs Stella Okoli, where she had performed.
According to Ngelale, “President Tinubu mourns the passing of the Queen of Songs, whose edifying and mellifluous rendition of ‘One Love’ in the 1990s evoked a fervour of fellowship and harmony.
“The President recalls the many artistic interventions of the late musical icon in promoting the public good, noting her classic collaboration with King Sunny Ade on ‘Wait for Me’, a melodic campaign on family planning in the 1980s.”
“Ms Onwenu lives on in her immortal masterpieces,” the President stated.
Tinubu celebrated the life of the versatile and extremely gifted artiste who devoted herself to a wide range of artistic endeavours and expressions, bringing joy and laughter to many.
He extended his condolences to the entertainment industry, the Imo State Government, and the numerous fans of the departed star over this immeasurable loss.
The President prayed for the repose of the soul of the deceased artiste and that “she finds a place yonder where the music never fades and where there is ‘Dancing in the Sun.’”
With three years of experience, Stephen, The According correspondent, has been covering Nigeria’s presidency, politics, security, immigration and trafficking in persons
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from According.
Contact: [email protected]
Police, PSC settle quarrel over 10,000 new recruits
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and the Police Service Commission (PSC) yesterday resolved their differences on the newly recruited 10,000 constables.
The police spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, in a statement, noted that said the police had finally accepted the list of the recruits.
The police earlier rejected the allegation that the process was marred by corruption.
Adejobi also confirmed Monday’s statement by the PSC that the training of the recruits would begin on August 10.
Recall that the NPF had in June rejected the list of 10,000 recruits released by the PSC under its immediate-past chairman, Solomon Arase.
The police had alleged that some qualified candidates were replaced with unqualified ones and demanded a cancellation of the entire process.
The PSC, however, denied the allegation and flatly rejected the demand for cancellation.
The stalemate prompted the Minister of Police Affairs, Ibrahim Gaidam, and other stakeholders to step into the matter.
On Monday, in a statement by its spokesman, Ikechukwu Ani, the PSC announced that the training of the recruits would commence on August 10.
READ ALSO: Police recruitment confusion as PSC denies rumours, warns of imposters
The police spokesman, Adejobi, in his own statement on Tuesday, quoted the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, as confirming that the police and the PSC were now on the same page concerning the 10,000 recruits.
Adejobi said the police and the PSC came to an agreement following extensive deliberations.
He said: “The Nigeria Police Force and the Police Service Commission have finally reached an agreement regarding the final merit list for the recruitment of police constables into the Nigeria Police Force.
“The Inspector General of Police expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating that the agreement on the final merit list is a testament to the commitment of both the Nigeria Police Force and the Police Service Commission to work together in the best interest of the country.
“In light of this development, training for the newly recruited officers is scheduled to commence on Saturday, August 10, 2024. The training programme will be intensive and designed to equip the recruits with the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their duties effectively and uphold the core values of the Nigeria Police Force.
“In furtherance of the directive of the IGP, the trainees are to be schooled in modern policing ethics and principles, community policing strategies, ICT, artificial intelligence, human relations, attitudinal and behavioural change etc.
“The Inspector General of Police extends gratitude to all stakeholders and the general public for their patience and support throughout this process.”
The post Police, PSC settle quarrel over 10,000 new recruits appeared first on Latest Nigeria News | Top Stories from TVN.
Gombe can’t pay N70,000 minimum wage
The Gombe State Governor, Inuwa Yahaya, has disclosed that with the lean allocation to the state, it would be difficult to meet the N70,000 minimum wage.
The minimum wage was recently assented to by President Bola Tinubu following an agreement with joint labour unions.
Speaking on Tuesday during a meeting held with stakeholders on the planned nationwide #Endbadgovernance protest at the banquet hall of Gombe Government House, Yahaya declared, “I cannot pay the N70,000 minimum wage, and I suspect many other states are in the same predicament.”
On the donated rice to the states, Yahaya commended the Federal Government for the initiative.
He, however, expressed concern over the delay in receiving these essential supplies in Gombe.
He said, “We are yet to receive the Federal Government’s 20 trucks of rice to Gombe State.”
Despite this, he emphasised the state’s commitment to providing relief to its citizens, citing previous palliative distributions and ongoing investments in human capital development, education, health, and agriculture among others.
Speaking on the protest, Yahaya reiterated the importance of peaceful and orderly conduct, acknowledging the role of civil society organisations, labour unions, and traders in maintaining social stability and economic resilience.
He called for continued cooperation and dialogue to collectively navigate these challenging times.
Presenting a list of demands on behalf of Non-Governmental Organisations, the Chairman, the Gombe Network of Civil Society Organisations, Yusuf Ibrahim, urged the governor to release the list of stocked palliatives.
August 1: Protest, we’ll be eating – Akpabio to Nigerians
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has charged aggrieved Nigerians Nigerians willing to protest to go ahead “but let us be there eating.”
Akpabio said all Nigerians are feeling the impact of the situation in the country but it’s for a short time.
He spoke at an event organised by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in Rivers state.
Hardship, high cost of living, and sufferings of Nigerians had sparked A nationwide protest that would commence on Thursday.
However, Akpabio said: “All of us feel the impact of what is happening now. But we are aware it will be for a short while.
“MD, I want to thank you for what you said. You said we are not interested in regime change, let us own this government.
“Those who want to protest can protest, but let us be there eating — I must thank the Niger Delta.
“So in conclusion, we acknowledge the fact that the impact of oil and gas activities in our region has done immeasurable damage to our people.”
He added that the national assembly is ready to help with legislation to curb oil spillage and environmental pollution in the region.
“The specific issues faced by the Niger Delta must be contained in that communique because we are going to make it available to Mr President,” he said.
August 1: Protest, we’ll be eating – Akpabio to Nigerians
57 hospitalized as mass food poisoning at TikTok HQ
Dozens of staff at ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, have been hospitalized due to a food poisoning outbreak in Singapore.
The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, affected 60 people who experienced symptoms of gastroenteritis. Of these, 57 were treated in hospital.
ByteDance does not prepare or cook food at its offices, instead, it uses third-party caterers to supply meals.
Reports revealed that at least seventeen ambulances were dispatched to ByteDance’s office building in Singapore’s business district to assist those who had fallen ill. READ MORE
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from According.
Contact: [email protected]
Onyeka Onwenu’s last performance before her death
Renowned Nigerian singer and actress Onyeka Onwenu’s final performance at the birthday celebration of Mrs. Stella Okoli, shortly before her passing at the age of 72.
She was said to have died on Tuesday night at the Reddington Hospital in Lagos after slumping at the birthday party of Mrs Stella Okoli.
TheNiche reported that an eyewitness who was at the party confirmed the news.
The eyewitness said, “It is very sad. Onyeka Onwenu just performed at the birthday of Mrs. Stella Okoli today (Tuesday, July 30, 2024), and after performing, she slumped.”
Click the link below to watch video:
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from According.
Contact: [email protected]
